Blind Abilities PodcastMon, 19 Mar 2018 01:07:58 +0000Mon, 19 Mar 2018 01:58:16 +0000Libsyn WebEngine 2.0http://www.BlindAbilities.com
enhttp://www.BlindAbilities.comInfo@BlindAbilities.com (Info@BlindAbilities.com)http://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/b/a/5/1/ba51d6acbbba05cd/BA.jpgBlind Abilities PodcastBlind Abilities Teama11y,access,accessibility,blind,blindness,bvi,tvicleanJeffThompson@BlindAbilities.comepisodichttp://blindabilities.libsyn.com/rssInterview with Be My Eyes Hans Wiberg and Community Directer Alexander Jensen: Specialized Help and Community StoriesInterview with Be My Eyes Hans Wiberg and Community Directer Alexander Jensen: Specialized Help and Community StoriesMon, 19 Mar 2018 01:07:58 +0000Be My Eyes is the ever growing creation of Hans Wiberg. He envisioned a service that would help the Blind and Visually Impaired have a means of connecting with volunteers to assist with a task and thus becoming their eyes for a few minutes. This idea was launched 3 years ago and I had the privilege of interviewing Hans. Well, here we are 3 years later and Hans has brought the Be My Eyes App to the world. With over 64,000 users and an astonishing number of volunteers, nearly a million, and 24/7 service, Be My Eyes is still adding features that will enhance the opportunities and give answers to those connecting to a volunteer through the Be My Eyes app.

We here from some users and volunteers about their experiences and Alexander tells us about the Specialized help launching with Microsoft Help Desk at your finger-tips.

]]>Be My Eyes is the ever growing creation of Hans Wiberg. He envisioned a service that would help the Blind and Visually Impaired have a means of connecting with volunteers to assist with a task and thus becoming their eyes for a few minutes. This idea was launched 3 years ago and I had the privilege of interviewing Hans. Well, here we are 3 years later and Hans has brought the Be My Eyes App to the world. With over 64,000 users and an astonishing number of volunteers, nearly a million, and 24/7 service, Be My Eyes is still adding features that will enhance the opportunities and give answers to those connecting to a volunteer through the Be My Eyes app.

We here from some users and volunteers about their experiences and Alexander tells us about the Specialized help launching with Microsoft Help Desk at your finger-tips.

]]>20:21cleanBe My Eyes is the ever growing creation of Hans Wiberg. He envisioned a service that would help the Blind and Visually Impaired have a means of connecting with volunteers to assist with a task and...1368fullblind Abilities TeamAn Aira Update: With Greg Stilson, Aira Agents, Leadership and Explorers An Aira Update: With Greg Stilson, Aira Agents, Leadership and Explorers Thu, 15 Mar 2018 13:46:27 +0000An Aira Update: With Greg Stilson, Aira Agents, Leadership and Explorers

blind Abilities presents an update on all things Aira. Join Jeff and Pete with their guest, Greg Stilson, Director, Aira Product Management, as he joins the podcast once again, this time to share his thoughts around his recent career change to Aira. Hear Greg’s story of how he first learned of Aira, and how that grew into a passion for the product, and eventually his decision to come on board. Greg is joined by a cast of contributors who also share their ideas and opinions about Aira, Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality, as Aira unveils their new Horizon glasses which should appear in the hands of Explorers later this year. Set a few minutes aside as Blind Abilities offers an update on Aira, the product, the agents, the Leadership and, most importantly, the Aira Explorers who offer their live comments from the Aira Explorers What’s App platform!

The following participants contributed their comments to this podcast:

blind Abilities presents an update on all things Aira. Join Jeff and Pete with their guest, Greg Stilson, Director, Aira Product Management, as he joins the podcast once again, this time to share his thoughts around his recent career change to Aira. Hear Greg’s story of how he first learned of Aira, and how that grew into a passion for the product, and eventually his decision to come on board. Greg is joined by a cast of contributors who also share their ideas and opinions about Aira, Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality, as Aira unveils their new Horizon glasses which should appear in the hands of Explorers later this year. Set a few minutes aside as Blind Abilities offers an update on Aira, the product, the agents, the Leadership and, most importantly, the Aira Explorers who offer their live comments from the Aira Explorers What’s App platform!

The following participants contributed their comments to this podcast:

]]>27:16cleanblind Abilities presents an update on all things Aira. Join Jeff and Pete with their guest, Greg Stilson, Director, Aira Product Management, as he joins the podcast once again, this time to share his thoughts around his recent career change to Aira.1367fullBlind Abilities TeamA day in the life, How Many Ways Can You Mess Up a Perfect Looking Day? By Jessica HodgesThu, 15 Mar 2018 13:19:40 +0000A day in the life, How Many Ways Can You Mess Up a Perfect Looking Day?

By Jessica Hodges

It's twenty degrees on a Monday morning. I have a breakfast of strawberry muffins, and a lunch packed of left over spaghetti. I even remember to pack a snack. My alarms went off, and achieved their purpose, so I was awake and ready by the time I needed to leave, a truly extraordinary feat. Tonight, I was leaving for Spring Break after work, and it was going to be amazing. Nothing could go wrong, I thought. I was very wrong.

As I was walking to the bus stop, I began to realize things didn't sound, or look, the way they were supposed to. Pulling out my phone, I noted that the battery was at forty percent. Sighing, I began to turn on my computer and plug the phone chord into it's USB port, only to remember my computer had come unplugged in my sleep. Sighing, I pull out blindsquare, a GPS app that narrates what streets I'm close to, and what points of interest are nearby. When it tells me that I'm on a street I'm not familiar with, I pull out Aira, an app that connects me with a trained cited person who can see what I'm seeing and track me via GPS.

"Thank you for Calling Aira," the agent said. "This is..."

Suddenly, no sound is coming from my phone. Button presses produce no results. Franticly, I hold down the power button and home button. Five minutes later, my phone turns back on at ten percent. I try Aira again with the same results. In this kind of a rush, I'd usually take Uber or Lyft, ride sharing apps that get you to specific locations for a fee, but something got pulled from my account earlier that week that took my emergency Uber funds. Sighing, I shoot an email to my instructor saying I'll be late (for all the good it will do) and start asking pedestrians questions. Blindsquare is semi helpful, until my phone dies five minutes later.

Pedestrians direct me to the train station. I get on the train with a sigh of relief, then groan when I hear the first stop. I've gotten on the wrong train. Normally, I'd use blind square in conjunction with move it to keep me on my way. Blind square can track how close you are to a place, and what direction it's in. Move it can tell when a train is coming, and when you're supposed to get off. Couple that with a reading app like Voice Dream and I usually have a fairly pleasant bus or train ride. Not today.

Today, I get off the train, and exit the train platform, only to get lost...again. When I finally find a train platform, I'm distracted and frantic now. I don't even know what time it is, but I'm certainly late for my class. This is my only excuse for getting on the wrong train a second time.

"Excuse me," I say to the rider next to me. "Can you please tell me what time it is?"

"Ten fifteen."

I freeze for a second, then put my head in my hands. Even if I got to school, there'd likely only be fifteen minutes of class left. Not worth it. I get off the train, trying not to cry. That is the worst reason to miss class I've ever seen. I get off the train, get on the correct train with the help of another rider, and head for home.

When I'm on my sidewalk, a woman comes up to me and says, "Excuse me, did you know that you're walking through snow, and your hair is red?"

I am not paying attention to things around me, and am moving on auto pilot. Without really thinking about what she's said, I shoot back, "No, "No, I thought I was on Mars and my hair is purple."

The woman came closer and put her hand on my shoulder. "Oh, honey, who told you that? I want to throw rocks at them."

At this point, the conversation catches up to me, and I have to bite my cheek to stop myself from hysterically laughing. Then I realize that now I have to explain things, , and talk to her, and stop laughing. Eventually, I convince her that I was employing sarcasm and move on.

When I get home, I flop on my bed, and start to do homework. My teacher, thankfully, was incredibly understanding, but I still wasn't ok with the day so far. I was equally upset with the fact that my eyes closed as I was reading my Psychology textbook, and I woke up three hours later. I had planned to go to work that day and make up some of the hours I would make up for spring break travels. At least I'd woken up in time to pack and bake lemon bars.

Lemon bars are one of my friends favorite things, and they're simple enough to make. I should have made them yesterday, but I had forgotten about it. I didn't know how I was going to cut them, as they generally need a day to set, but I was just going to have to experiment.

I was in the middle of making the filling when the catastrophe happened. In lemon bars, you bake the crust before you add the filling. My timer informed me that the crust was done, and I pulled it out of the oven. I was almost to the counter where I wanted it, when the pan shattered in my hands, and went all over the counter, the floor, and my filling. My vacuum was broken, and I wasn't wearing any shoes. Worse still, that was my only baking pan, and I was out of groceries. I had instacart, a grocery delivery service, scheduled for when I got back, but that didn't help me now. Wincing, I bent down to clean up the glass and clumps of crust. the crust would have been perfect too.

I should have started with the laundry. If I'd been thinking, I would have. But I hate laundry, even with an app to help me remember the colors of things, and a labeling system to help remember what color's what. As it was, my room mate was using the washer. This was made worse by the fact that some of my laundry had gotten wet from when I'd accidentally dumped my fountain all over my floor. Sighing, I started to pack anyway.

I packed in the usual way, starting with shoes, then clothes, and then electronics, with toiletries going in a specific pocket. However, a broken zipper made zipping my suitcase difficult. I was halfway through wrangling the mess together when my phone dinged to tell me it was time to leave to catch the bus going towards the bus station. Sighing, I pulled out another bag to stuff my over packing into, gave my suitcase zipper a great and mighty shove, threw on my coat, and started for the bus.

The aira app had stopped throwing fits, so I was able to get there with no trouble. Once I arrived at the station, asked where the bus would pull up. The response I got was, "What on gods green earth are you doing taking a bus to another state?" Sighing, I said, "I'm a poor college student, and it's cheaper than a plane."

"You should take the train instead," they said.

"I can't afford a different ticket," I said. "Especially now, the day I'm supposed to leave."

"But sweetie, their are more people able to help you on the train."

"Really," I said. "Unless you want to pay for a different ticket, I'm taking the bus."

They helped me find the correct terminal.

I got on the bus, and promptly started reading, transferring in the right spots, and without any danger from anyone. My friend and I had a lovely spring break. And I was able to eat the lunch and snacks I'd packed for earlier on the bus. I also managed to make lemon bars at her house. So, all in all, I guess the day wasn't so bad after all.

]]>A day in the life, How Many Ways Can You Mess Up a Perfect Looking Day?

By Jessica Hodges

It's twenty degrees on a Monday morning. I have a breakfast of strawberry muffins, and a lunch packed of left over spaghetti. I even remember to pack a snack. My alarms went off, and achieved their purpose, so I was awake and ready by the time I needed to leave, a truly extraordinary feat. Tonight, I was leaving for Spring Break after work, and it was going to be amazing. Nothing could go wrong, I thought. I was very wrong.

As I was walking to the bus stop, I began to realize things didn't sound, or look, the way they were supposed to. Pulling out my phone, I noted that the battery was at forty percent. Sighing, I began to turn on my computer and plug the phone chord into it's USB port, only to remember my computer had come unplugged in my sleep. Sighing, I pull out blindsquare, a GPS app that narrates what streets I'm close to, and what points of interest are nearby. When it tells me that I'm on a street I'm not familiar with, I pull out Aira, an app that connects me with a trained cited person who can see what I'm seeing and track me via GPS.

"Thank you for Calling Aira," the agent said. "This is..."

Suddenly, no sound is coming from my phone. Button presses produce no results. Franticly, I hold down the power button and home button. Five minutes later, my phone turns back on at ten percent. I try Aira again with the same results. In this kind of a rush, I'd usually take Uber or Lyft, ride sharing apps that get you to specific locations for a fee, but something got pulled from my account earlier that week that took my emergency Uber funds. Sighing, I shoot an email to my instructor saying I'll be late (for all the good it will do) and start asking pedestrians questions. Blindsquare is semi helpful, until my phone dies five minutes later.

Pedestrians direct me to the train station. I get on the train with a sigh of relief, then groan when I hear the first stop. I've gotten on the wrong train. Normally, I'd use blind square in conjunction with move it to keep me on my way. Blind square can track how close you are to a place, and what direction it's in. Move it can tell when a train is coming, and when you're supposed to get off. Couple that with a reading app like Voice Dream and I usually have a fairly pleasant bus or train ride. Not today.

Today, I get off the train, and exit the train platform, only to get lost...again. When I finally find a train platform, I'm distracted and frantic now. I don't even know what time it is, but I'm certainly late for my class. This is my only excuse for getting on the wrong train a second time.

"Excuse me," I say to the rider next to me. "Can you please tell me what time it is?"

"Ten fifteen."

I freeze for a second, then put my head in my hands. Even if I got to school, there'd likely only be fifteen minutes of class left. Not worth it. I get off the train, trying not to cry. That is the worst reason to miss class I've ever seen. I get off the train, get on the correct train with the help of another rider, and head for home.

When I'm on my sidewalk, a woman comes up to me and says, "Excuse me, did you know that you're walking through snow, and your hair is red?"

I am not paying attention to things around me, and am moving on auto pilot. Without really thinking about what she's said, I shoot back, "No, "No, I thought I was on Mars and my hair is purple."

The woman came closer and put her hand on my shoulder. "Oh, honey, who told you that? I want to throw rocks at them."

At this point, the conversation catches up to me, and I have to bite my cheek to stop myself from hysterically laughing. Then I realize that now I have to explain things, , and talk to her, and stop laughing. Eventually, I convince her that I was employing sarcasm and move on.

When I get home, I flop on my bed, and start to do homework. My teacher, thankfully, was incredibly understanding, but I still wasn't ok with the day so far. I was equally upset with the fact that my eyes closed as I was reading my Psychology textbook, and I woke up three hours later. I had planned to go to work that day and make up some of the hours I would make up for spring break travels. At least I'd woken up in time to pack and bake lemon bars.

Lemon bars are one of my friends favorite things, and they're simple enough to make. I should have made them yesterday, but I had forgotten about it. I didn't know how I was going to cut them, as they generally need a day to set, but I was just going to have to experiment.

I was in the middle of making the filling when the catastrophe happened. In lemon bars, you bake the crust before you add the filling. My timer informed me that the crust was done, and I pulled it out of the oven. I was almost to the counter where I wanted it, when the pan shattered in my hands, and went all over the counter, the floor, and my filling. My vacuum was broken, and I wasn't wearing any shoes. Worse still, that was my only baking pan, and I was out of groceries. I had instacart, a grocery delivery service, scheduled for when I got back, but that didn't help me now. Wincing, I bent down to clean up the glass and clumps of crust. the crust would have been perfect too.

I should have started with the laundry. If I'd been thinking, I would have. But I hate laundry, even with an app to help me remember the colors of things, and a labeling system to help remember what color's what. As it was, my room mate was using the washer. This was made worse by the fact that some of my laundry had gotten wet from when I'd accidentally dumped my fountain all over my floor. Sighing, I started to pack anyway.

I packed in the usual way, starting with shoes, then clothes, and then electronics, with toiletries going in a specific pocket. However, a broken zipper made zipping my suitcase difficult. I was halfway through wrangling the mess together when my phone dinged to tell me it was time to leave to catch the bus going towards the bus station. Sighing, I pulled out another bag to stuff my over packing into, gave my suitcase zipper a great and mighty shove, threw on my coat, and started for the bus.

The aira app had stopped throwing fits, so I was able to get there with no trouble. Once I arrived at the station, asked where the bus would pull up. The response I got was, "What on gods green earth are you doing taking a bus to another state?" Sighing, I said, "I'm a poor college student, and it's cheaper than a plane."

"You should take the train instead," they said.

"I can't afford a different ticket," I said. "Especially now, the day I'm supposed to leave."

"But sweetie, their are more people able to help you on the train."

"Really," I said. "Unless you want to pay for a different ticket, I'm taking the bus."

They helped me find the correct terminal.

I got on the bus, and promptly started reading, transferring in the right spots, and without any danger from anyone. My friend and I had a lovely spring break. And I was able to eat the lunch and snacks I'd packed for earlier on the bus. I also managed to make lemon bars at her house. So, all in all, I guess the day wasn't so bad after all.

Welcome to Episode 13 of That Blind Tech Show. Allison, Jeff and Bryan bring you a jam packed episode including segments from an interview with the Be My Eyes Team, a demonstration on setting up your Amazon device with the new Follow Up feature. This allows you to ask another question within 5 seconds without invoking the A-word each time.

From England enlisting the Amazon device for reporting crimes to a new racing interface allowing Visually Impaired people to race competitively and a bit of the past with Bryan’s Blind Drift Challenge.

We cover a bit on the MoveIt app, CSUN and the Apple vs Android SmackDown. Microsoft’s new Soundscape app which allows for an Audio Map soundscape for points of interests and navigation.

And if that is not enough, we bring up the vibration settings you can personalize for members in your contacts and hopefully you make it to the end and find out why Australians are tuning Bryan out!

Here are some of the links mentioned in Episode 13 of That Blind Tech Show:

Welcome to Episode 13 of That Blind Tech Show. Allison, Jeff and Bryan bring you a jam packed episode including segments from an interview with the Be My Eyes Team, a demonstration on setting up your Amazon device with the new Follow Up feature. This allows you to ask another question within 5 seconds without invoking the A-word each time.

From England enlisting the Amazon device for reporting crimes to a new racing interface allowing Visually Impaired people to race competitively and a bit of the past with Bryan’s Blind Drift Challenge.

We cover a bit on the MoveIt app, CSUN and the Apple vs Android SmackDown. Microsoft’s new Soundscape app which allows for an Audio Map soundscape for points of interests and navigation.

And if that is not enough, we bring up the vibration settings you can personalize for members in your contacts and hopefully you make it to the end and find out why Australians are tuning Bryan out!

Here are some of the links mentioned in Episode 13 of That Blind Tech Show:

]]>56:56cleanWelcome to Episode 13 of That Blind Tech Show. Allison, Jeff and Bryan bring you a jam packed episode including segments from an interview with the Be My Eyes Team, a demonstration on setting up your Amazon device with the new Follow Up feature...1366fullBlind Abilities TeamTVI Toolbox - Tools for Success: Meet Devin and Lisa, Son and Mom, Experiencing State Services and the BEP #SuccessStoriesTVI Toolbox - Tools for Success: Meet Devin and Lisa, Son and Mom, Experiencing State Services and the BEP #SuccessStoriesTue, 13 Mar 2018 12:06:47 +0000TVI Toolbox - Tools for Success: Meet Devin and Lisa, Son and Mom, Experiencing State Services and the BEP #SuccessStories

Blind Abilities presents the TVI Toolbox. Where the collaboration between Teachers, Counselors, Parents, Agencies and the Students themselves help enhance the opportunities for success.

Transitioning from high school to college and the workplace is a major step and the beginning of lifetime goals and aspirations. As Devin , this month’s featured interview in the Success Stories portion of this podcast, experienced the workforce through an internship with the Business Enterprise Program (BEP). The BEP Director John Hulet talks about what to expect and how to get involved with BEP. Devin’s mom, Lisa Ferguson, takes us through her experience as a mom of a child with vision loss and working with State Services for the Blind (SSB). Her perspective along with Devin’s gives us a good idea of how Devin became a member of the workforce at age 15. Job experience, resume writing, learning the public transit system as a means of transportation and developing a relationship with a business owner and the Transition Team at SSB gives Devin and Lisa a wealth of experience moving forward.

From the TVI’s to the Agency counselor’s and program specialist, working together along with parents as well, is creating more opportunities and successes for Transition age students.

Sharing experiences through Success Stories, sharing programs that make a positive impact, sharing ideas, findings, upcoming events and the Tools for Success all play a part in making the transition process a natural progression and better understood by all.

Getting everyone on the same page is easy – so long as join.me instant screen sharing is involved. When you start your join.me meeting, simply press the “Broadcast” button and you’re ready to go. It’s that simple.

Check out your State Services by searching the Services Directory on the AFB.org web site.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

You can submit to the On The Horizons segment by emailing jessica Hodges

]]>TVI Toolbox - Tools for Success: Meet Devin and Lisa, Son and Mom, Experiencing State Services and the BEP #SuccessStories

Blind Abilities presents the TVI Toolbox. Where the collaboration between Teachers, Counselors, Parents, Agencies and the Students themselves help enhance the opportunities for success.

Transitioning from high school to college and the workplace is a major step and the beginning of lifetime goals and aspirations. As Devin , this month’s featured interview in the Success Stories portion of this podcast, experienced the workforce through an internship with the Business Enterprise Program (BEP). The BEP Director John Hulet talks about what to expect and how to get involved with BEP. Devin’s mom, Lisa Ferguson, takes us through her experience as a mom of a child with vision loss and working with State Services for the Blind (SSB). Her perspective along with Devin’s gives us a good idea of how Devin became a member of the workforce at age 15. Job experience, resume writing, learning the public transit system as a means of transportation and developing a relationship with a business owner and the Transition Team at SSB gives Devin and Lisa a wealth of experience moving forward.

From the TVI’s to the Agency counselor’s and program specialist, working together along with parents as well, is creating more opportunities and successes for Transition age students.

Sharing experiences through Success Stories, sharing programs that make a positive impact, sharing ideas, findings, upcoming events and the Tools for Success all play a part in making the transition process a natural progression and better understood by all.

Getting everyone on the same page is easy – so long as join.me instant screen sharing is involved. When you start your join.me meeting, simply press the “Broadcast” button and you’re ready to go. It’s that simple.

Check out your State Services by searching the Services Directory on the AFB.org web site.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

You can submit to the On The Horizons segment by emailing jessica Hodges

]]>24:37cleanFrom the TVI’s to the Agency counselor’s and program specialist, working together along with parents as well, is creating more opportunities and successes for Transition age students.1365fullBlind Abilities TeamAttention Musicians, Audio Creators, Singers: Let the Access Begin! Able Artist Foundation Meets You Half WayAttention Musicians, Audio Creators, Singers: Let the Access Begin! Able Artist Foundation Meets You Half WayMon, 05 Mar 2018 15:34:03 +0000Able Artist Foundation CEO and Founder Stephen Letnes joins us in the Blind Abilities studio to talk about the opportunities and discounts the Able Artist Foundation provides absolutely Free to it’s members.

Stephen explains how easy it is to join and become a member and start receiving the discounts right away. He fills us in on another aspect of creating opportunities for a selected group to gain access to studio time, to work with professionals in the trade and all without the burden of limited income.

Able Artist Foundation requires a membership that includes the requirement of the member to be receiving SSI/SSDI. Stephen knows all to well how dreams and opportunities can be out of reach without the support and access to technology and opportunities. That is why Stephen has devoted his time an energy to create a non-profit foundation that will enhance the opportunities and lower the cost factor that can be a barrier to creativeness and reaching one’s fullest potential.

Yes, this is a, “Free membership,” Stephen Letnes keeps reminding us throughout the podcast and with all the discounts and opportunities, the reminder seems to keep the dream alive. Join Stephen Letnes and Jeff Thompson as he unveils Able Artist Foundation and all that it can offer you.

The wait is over. After months of brainstorming, discussion, development and analysis, the Able Artist platform is now public, searchable and accessible.

Potential members and vendors alike can now apply to become a part of the Able Artist family. The goal is simple for this site: pair people with disabilities who are on fixed incomes, like SSI and SSDI, with willing and generous corporate partners who are stepping up to say,"we believe that everyone should have a reasonable opportunity to obtain tools for creativity so they can discover talents within themselves , develop those identifiable talents into skills whereby they can then decide — for themselves - what they want to do next."

This is not just a website; it is a platform. Its capabilities are such that it can easily handle the millions of eligible Americans and businesses that choose to be a part of Able Artist. Let the access begin!

]]>Able Artist Foundation CEO and Founder Stephen Letnes joins us in the Blind Abilities studio to talk about the opportunities and discounts the Able Artist Foundation provides absolutely Free to it’s members.

Stephen explains how easy it is to join and become a member and start receiving the discounts right away. He fills us in on another aspect of creating opportunities for a selected group to gain access to studio time, to work with professionals in the trade and all without the burden of limited income.

Able Artist Foundation requires a membership that includes the requirement of the member to be receiving SSI/SSDI. Stephen knows all to well how dreams and opportunities can be out of reach without the support and access to technology and opportunities. That is why Stephen has devoted his time an energy to create a non-profit foundation that will enhance the opportunities and lower the cost factor that can be a barrier to creativeness and reaching one’s fullest potential.

Yes, this is a, “Free membership,” Stephen Letnes keeps reminding us throughout the podcast and with all the discounts and opportunities, the reminder seems to keep the dream alive. Join Stephen Letnes and Jeff Thompson as he unveils Able Artist Foundation and all that it can offer you.

The wait is over. After months of brainstorming, discussion, development and analysis, the Able Artist platform is now public, searchable and accessible.

Potential members and vendors alike can now apply to become a part of the Able Artist family. The goal is simple for this site: pair people with disabilities who are on fixed incomes, like SSI and SSDI, with willing and generous corporate partners who are stepping up to say,"we believe that everyone should have a reasonable opportunity to obtain tools for creativity so they can discover talents within themselves , develop those identifiable talents into skills whereby they can then decide — for themselves - what they want to do next."

This is not just a website; it is a platform. Its capabilities are such that it can easily handle the millions of eligible Americans and businesses that choose to be a part of Able Artist. Let the access begin!

]]>23:10noThe wait is over. After months of brainstorming, discussion, development and analysis, the Able Artist platform is now public, searchable and accessible.
Potential members and vendors alike can now apply to become a part of the Able Artist family. 1364fullSeeing the World, Sometimes in Ways We Never Imagined. George Wurtzel Talks about His Star Role in the Subaru Commercial Seeing the World, Sometimes in Ways We Never Imagined. George Wurtzel Talks about His Star Role in the Subaru Commercial Sun, 04 Mar 2018 04:56:20 +0000Seeing the World, Sometimes in Ways We Never Imagined. George Wurtzel Talks about His Star Role in the Subaru Commercial

George Wurtzel gives us a inside look and his philosophical approach to his involvement with the New Subaru TV commercial. We are including an audio described version of the audio from the Subaru commercial. George is George and nothing Hollywood about him as he explains the process and the experience of working on location and being part of this great commercial with such a great perspective on Blindness.

George Talks about Wood Working for the Blind, WW4B, Enchanted Hills Camp, and his Hollywood accepted wardrobe... Bib Over-alls Flannel shirt and boots. Good to Go!

]]>Seeing the World, Sometimes in Ways We Never Imagined. George Wurtzel Talks about His Star Role in the Subaru Commercial

George Wurtzel gives us a inside look and his philosophical approach to his involvement with the New Subaru TV commercial. We are including an audio described version of the audio from the Subaru commercial. George is George and nothing Hollywood about him as he explains the process and the experience of working on location and being part of this great commercial with such a great perspective on Blindness.

George Talks about Wood Working for the Blind, WW4B, Enchanted Hills Camp, and his Hollywood accepted wardrobe... Bib Over-alls Flannel shirt and boots. Good to Go!

]]>22:01cleanGeorge Wurtzel gives us a inside look and his philosophical approach to his involvement with the New Subaru TV commercial. We are including an audio described version of the audio from the Subaru commercial...1363fullMicrosoft’s Soundscape App Creates a 3D Audio Map to Enhance Your ExplorationMicrosoft’s Soundscape App Creates a 3D Audio Map to Enhance Your ExplorationFri, 02 Mar 2018 03:00:11 +0000Microsoft’s Soundscape App Creates a 3D Audio Map to Enhance Your Exploration

Jeff Thompson gives us a overview of the Soundscape App from Microsoft. Running through the menus and settings and locating reference points as well as near-by bus stops.

Here is what Microsoft has to say about their new Soundscape App:

When you’re ready, just go for a walk on a well-known route and listen to the callouts to get a sense of how Soundscape works and how you may want to use it. Have fun! Microsoft Soundscape uses 3D audio technology to enhance your awareness of what is around you, and thereby help you get around and explore your surroundings. Soundscape will place audio cues and labels in 3D space such that they sound like they are coming from the direction of the points of interest, parks, roads and other features in your surroundings. You will need a pair of stereo headsets that you feel comfortable wearing outdoors. For example, bone conduction headsets, Apple AirPods and in-ear open headphones have proven to work well. Soundscape is designed to live in the background and provide you with effortless ambient awareness. Therefore, feel free to use it in conjunction with other apps such as podcasts, audio books, email and even GPS navigation. Key features: - As you walk, Soundscape will automatically call out the key points of interest, roads and intersections that you pass. These can be adjusted and turned on and off. - An audio beacon can be placed on a point of interest, and you will hear it as you move around. You can place an audio beacon on a point of interest that you would like to track such as your destination, a point to return to or a landmark you are familiar with. - “My location” describes your current location and the direction you are facing - “Around me” describes nearby points of interest in each of the four cardinal directions, helping with orientation. Try this out when getting off a bus or leaving a train station. - “Ahead of me” describes points of interest in front of you, for example when walking down the street. We hope you enjoy the experience. We believe that this kind of technology offers a new way to relate to the environment around you and we can’t wait to hear what you make of it. If at any time you have any questions about Soundscape, please refer to the Help & Tutorials section available on the main menu or if you require further help then you can contact the Disability Answer Desk on 1-800-936-5900 which is a free of charge service.

Jeff Thompson gives us a overview of the Soundscape App from Microsoft. Running through the menus and settings and locating reference points as well as near-by bus stops.

Here is what Microsoft has to say about their new Soundscape App:

When you’re ready, just go for a walk on a well-known route and listen to the callouts to get a sense of how Soundscape works and how you may want to use it. Have fun! Microsoft Soundscape uses 3D audio technology to enhance your awareness of what is around you, and thereby help you get around and explore your surroundings. Soundscape will place audio cues and labels in 3D space such that they sound like they are coming from the direction of the points of interest, parks, roads and other features in your surroundings. You will need a pair of stereo headsets that you feel comfortable wearing outdoors. For example, bone conduction headsets, Apple AirPods and in-ear open headphones have proven to work well. Soundscape is designed to live in the background and provide you with effortless ambient awareness. Therefore, feel free to use it in conjunction with other apps such as podcasts, audio books, email and even GPS navigation. Key features: - As you walk, Soundscape will automatically call out the key points of interest, roads and intersections that you pass. These can be adjusted and turned on and off. - An audio beacon can be placed on a point of interest, and you will hear it as you move around. You can place an audio beacon on a point of interest that you would like to track such as your destination, a point to return to or a landmark you are familiar with. - “My location” describes your current location and the direction you are facing - “Around me” describes nearby points of interest in each of the four cardinal directions, helping with orientation. Try this out when getting off a bus or leaving a train station. - “Ahead of me” describes points of interest in front of you, for example when walking down the street. We hope you enjoy the experience. We believe that this kind of technology offers a new way to relate to the environment around you and we can’t wait to hear what you make of it. If at any time you have any questions about Soundscape, please refer to the Help & Tutorials section available on the main menu or if you require further help then you can contact the Disability Answer Desk on 1-800-936-5900 which is a free of charge service.

]]>13:51noMicrosoft Soundscape uses 3D audio technology to enhance your awareness of what is around you, and thereby help you get around and explore your surroundings. Soundscape will place audio cues and labels in 3D space such that they sound like...1362fullMoveIt App: Bus and Train Live Info. Blog Post by Jessica HodgesThu, 01 Mar 2018 19:46:27 +0000MoveIt App: Bus and Train Live Info Blog Post by Jessica Hodges

By Jessica Hodges

Yesterday, my phone died. I was just about to leave for an appointment. The result? Four wrong busses, going back and forth. Ok...maybe part of that was being a bit sleepy on the bus...but I did get on the wrong bus twice. Being unfamiliar with the area didn't help. Usually, I use tools on my phone to keep me mostly awake, and track where I am and how I need to get where I need to go. One such tool specific to bus and train travel is called move it.

Move it is a tool for searching transits across cities, letting you easily search for an address or place name, find a route that works for you, and track your progress on your way. The interface is simple and clean, making all these steps a breeze.

Move it is divided into three segments. Each segment is a tab at the bottom of the screen, directions, stations, and lines. Under the stations tab, you can find two tabs, nearby and favorites. Under the nearby tab, stations are listed by distance. VoiceOver will read the station, how close it is, and lines that come to it, for example "Station X Street and Y Avenue, is two minutes’ walk away from you, 77, 11, 22, 33," the next two swipes find the lines that service that station, and when the next expected arrival time is. After those two, there is a button that is labeled "View all lines for this station." Tapping this button does exactly what it says, bringing you to a list of lines. Tapping on a line brings you to the stations it stops at, and at what time. If you didn't tap on this button, the next swipe will bring you to the next closest station.

The lines tab opens onto three buttons, search for a line, all lines, alerts, and favorites. The search for a line button lets you search all lines. All lines present you with a list, and alerts lets you know if there are any problems or changes made to a line. Below this is a list of all your recently searched lines. Tapping on a line, either hear, or in the search window, gives you all the stations this line goes to, and the estimated arrival time. Tapping on a station gives you all the lines that go to that station, with their estimated arrival time. The favorites button lets you see any lines you've put in your favorites, which you can do from the lines screen.

When you open the app, it automatically defaults to the directions tab. On this screen you can find a menu button, labeled as more. Here, you can find various options and bits of information for move it including settings, work and home addresses, options for syncing favorite places across devices, a profile editing screen, and options to rate and share the app. The buttons here are labeled accordingly. One of the interesting things in this screen are notifications move it can send that will tell you each morning the most efficient route to get to work based on traffic. I do not use this feature, as I go to a different place every morning and from a different place every afternoon due to splitting work and school, but I have heard from others it makes accurate predictions and usually saves time.

Usually I have no need for this menu, and go instead to the button next to it, the search for directions button. Below this are shortcuts for home and work, and after that are your most common searches. Tapping on one of these brings up a screen where you can confirm your search or adjust the time of either departure or arrival. Whether you're aiming on departure or arrival time is accessed by a menu, which you can find by tapping on the leave at button. Once you've chosen whether you're looking to leave by, or arrive by, a certain time, the times can be changed by a simple slider. Whenever you're searching for a place through any part of the app, the way you operate the search screen is still the same. When viewing the recent searches however, keep in mind that home and work still count as searches even though they are activated by shortcut instead of the button above.

Below the most common searches is a short list of your most recent trips. I haven't gone, or searched for, where I'm going today, so instead I need the search for directions button. Tapping on this button lands you in a search field, into which you can type where you're trying to go. Below this button are some of your more recent searches in a scrolling list. Tonight, I'm going to a poetry meat up, so I type in the name of a close by cafe. The search results are displayed with address first, then place name. So, the first thing I find is the cafe's address, the second is the cafe name. Even though this took swipes, it is the same result. Swiping past this will yield me another address, and the one after that another place name, being two results down. I didn't need to do this however, since it was the first result I wanted.

Tapping on a search results brings me to a list of ways to get there. The screen is headed by a button that states the search, where you're going, and what time. If I want to change this, tapping on this button will let me do so. Today I've got it right, so I swipe to the list. They are usually sorted by time, from shortest to longest. Flicking to a result will first say the line name, the time the trip will take, the specific times of the trip, and the street corner. It will also tell you if a station is accessible to wheel chairs and strollers. So, it might sound something like this. " Route 1, 16, from 3:28 Pm to 4:10 PM, leaves in 22 minutes from X Street and Y Avenue, this route includes stations that are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers." A flick to the right will bring you to the next result. It's the first one I want, so I double tap.

The screen I am taken to has a heading of where I'm trying to go, and how long it will take. After that is a share button. The next heading tells us when the trip begins and ends. In the event the time is not in fact when I want to leave, these next two elements are an earlier and later button. It is important to use these buttons if you need them and want to have the app keep track of where you are. To the right of these buttons is a series of steps and some GPS directions. In order. They are: "Start from your current location" "Leave at (insert time here) Walk to X Street and Y Avenue." After this button is a button that gives the number of minutes, and length of the walk. Tapping on this button presents you with a list of directions to get to the stop. Generally, these consist of how many feet away the stop is and in what direction. Next, it tells you what line to wait for, and when it's coming. Then, it will tell you how many stops to ride, and what stop to get off, saying something like "Ride to V Street and W Avenue." The next button gives the number of stops, and the time the bus trip will take. Tapping here will let you see a list of stops along the way. Tapping the button again will hide them. If there is a transfer, it will then repeat the steps above. At the end is an estimation of how long it will take to walk to your destination. Below this are options to report problems with either the line or the station. The last button on the screen is a start live directions button. Tapping this button will give you live directions all along the trip, beginning with GPS directions to the stop. These only work when the phone is unlocked however, and I tend to save battery for the tedium of bus trips themselves, so I generally use something like google maps to supplement. When waiting, the app will give a push notification telling you when the bus is approaching and is generally right on the mark. Today, I get the notification right as I'm running up to the bus stop, and the bus pulls up about fifteen-seconds later.

Busses are quite loud, and I like to wear headphones to preserve my sanity. Without this app, I'd never dare to do such a thing. With it however, I let myself. The app will send me notifications when I'm two stops away, one stop away, and getting off the bus, and this works in the background, so I can lock my screen or be reading a great audiobook, looking at Twitter, or taking notes for a class.

I only must be careful not to let my battery run down, as the app will not accurately send notifications when in low power mode. Notifications are in perfect time with bus announcements, letting me know about fifteen-seconds before I need to get off, allowing me to pack my phone and stand.

Thanks to move it, I was able to plan my trip, take the correct bus, and get off in a timely manner, without shredding my eardrums with bus rumbles, other people’s screaming children, and beeping bus doors. It has worked for trips both before and since then, and I continue to make it a consistent travel staple as it simplifies daunting line directions to a few simple steps with guided alerts along the way. The app has worked very well for me, and I hope it will for others.

Yesterday, my phone died. I was just about to leave for an appointment. The result? Four wrong busses, going back and forth. Ok...maybe part of that was being a bit sleepy on the bus...but I did get on the wrong bus twice. Being unfamiliar with the area didn't help. Usually, I use tools on my phone to keep me mostly awake, and track where I am and how I need to get where I need to go. One such tool specific to bus and train travel is called move it.

Move it is a tool for searching transits across cities, letting you easily search for an address or place name, find a route that works for you, and track your progress on your way. The interface is simple and clean, making all these steps a breeze.

Move it is divided into three segments. Each segment is a tab at the bottom of the screen, directions, stations, and lines. Under the stations tab, you can find two tabs, nearby and favorites. Under the nearby tab, stations are listed by distance. VoiceOver will read the station, how close it is, and lines that come to it, for example "Station X Street and Y Avenue, is two minutes’ walk away from you, 77, 11, 22, 33," the next two swipes find the lines that service that station, and when the next expected arrival time is. After those two, there is a button that is labeled "View all lines for this station." Tapping this button does exactly what it says, bringing you to a list of lines. Tapping on a line brings you to the stations it stops at, and at what time. If you didn't tap on this button, the next swipe will bring you to the next closest station.

The lines tab opens onto three buttons, search for a line, all lines, alerts, and favorites. The search for a line button lets you search all lines. All lines present you with a list, and alerts lets you know if there are any problems or changes made to a line. Below this is a list of all your recently searched lines. Tapping on a line, either hear, or in the search window, gives you all the stations this line goes to, and the estimated arrival time. Tapping on a station gives you all the lines that go to that station, with their estimated arrival time. The favorites button lets you see any lines you've put in your favorites, which you can do from the lines screen.

When you open the app, it automatically defaults to the directions tab. On this screen you can find a menu button, labeled as more. Here, you can find various options and bits of information for move it including settings, work and home addresses, options for syncing favorite places across devices, a profile editing screen, and options to rate and share the app. The buttons here are labeled accordingly. One of the interesting things in this screen are notifications move it can send that will tell you each morning the most efficient route to get to work based on traffic. I do not use this feature, as I go to a different place every morning and from a different place every afternoon due to splitting work and school, but I have heard from others it makes accurate predictions and usually saves time.

Usually I have no need for this menu, and go instead to the button next to it, the search for directions button. Below this are shortcuts for home and work, and after that are your most common searches. Tapping on one of these brings up a screen where you can confirm your search or adjust the time of either departure or arrival. Whether you're aiming on departure or arrival time is accessed by a menu, which you can find by tapping on the leave at button. Once you've chosen whether you're looking to leave by, or arrive by, a certain time, the times can be changed by a simple slider. Whenever you're searching for a place through any part of the app, the way you operate the search screen is still the same. When viewing the recent searches however, keep in mind that home and work still count as searches even though they are activated by shortcut instead of the button above.

Below the most common searches is a short list of your most recent trips. I haven't gone, or searched for, where I'm going today, so instead I need the search for directions button. Tapping on this button lands you in a search field, into which you can type where you're trying to go. Below this button are some of your more recent searches in a scrolling list. Tonight, I'm going to a poetry meat up, so I type in the name of a close by cafe. The search results are displayed with address first, then place name. So, the first thing I find is the cafe's address, the second is the cafe name. Even though this took swipes, it is the same result. Swiping past this will yield me another address, and the one after that another place name, being two results down. I didn't need to do this however, since it was the first result I wanted.

Tapping on a search results brings me to a list of ways to get there. The screen is headed by a button that states the search, where you're going, and what time. If I want to change this, tapping on this button will let me do so. Today I've got it right, so I swipe to the list. They are usually sorted by time, from shortest to longest. Flicking to a result will first say the line name, the time the trip will take, the specific times of the trip, and the street corner. It will also tell you if a station is accessible to wheel chairs and strollers. So, it might sound something like this. " Route 1, 16, from 3:28 Pm to 4:10 PM, leaves in 22 minutes from X Street and Y Avenue, this route includes stations that are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers." A flick to the right will bring you to the next result. It's the first one I want, so I double tap.

The screen I am taken to has a heading of where I'm trying to go, and how long it will take. After that is a share button. The next heading tells us when the trip begins and ends. In the event the time is not in fact when I want to leave, these next two elements are an earlier and later button. It is important to use these buttons if you need them and want to have the app keep track of where you are. To the right of these buttons is a series of steps and some GPS directions. In order. They are: "Start from your current location" "Leave at (insert time here) Walk to X Street and Y Avenue." After this button is a button that gives the number of minutes, and length of the walk. Tapping on this button presents you with a list of directions to get to the stop. Generally, these consist of how many feet away the stop is and in what direction. Next, it tells you what line to wait for, and when it's coming. Then, it will tell you how many stops to ride, and what stop to get off, saying something like "Ride to V Street and W Avenue." The next button gives the number of stops, and the time the bus trip will take. Tapping here will let you see a list of stops along the way. Tapping the button again will hide them. If there is a transfer, it will then repeat the steps above. At the end is an estimation of how long it will take to walk to your destination. Below this are options to report problems with either the line or the station. The last button on the screen is a start live directions button. Tapping this button will give you live directions all along the trip, beginning with GPS directions to the stop. These only work when the phone is unlocked however, and I tend to save battery for the tedium of bus trips themselves, so I generally use something like google maps to supplement. When waiting, the app will give a push notification telling you when the bus is approaching and is generally right on the mark. Today, I get the notification right as I'm running up to the bus stop, and the bus pulls up about fifteen-seconds later.

Busses are quite loud, and I like to wear headphones to preserve my sanity. Without this app, I'd never dare to do such a thing. With it however, I let myself. The app will send me notifications when I'm two stops away, one stop away, and getting off the bus, and this works in the background, so I can lock my screen or be reading a great audiobook, looking at Twitter, or taking notes for a class.

I only must be careful not to let my battery run down, as the app will not accurately send notifications when in low power mode. Notifications are in perfect time with bus announcements, letting me know about fifteen-seconds before I need to get off, allowing me to pack my phone and stand.

Thanks to move it, I was able to plan my trip, take the correct bus, and get off in a timely manner, without shredding my eardrums with bus rumbles, other people’s screaming children, and beeping bus doors. It has worked for trips both before and since then, and I continue to make it a consistent travel staple as it simplifies daunting line directions to a few simple steps with guided alerts along the way. The app has worked very well for me, and I hope it will for others.

]]>That Blind Tech Show: Delta Gets it Right, Skype is Failing, How Long is Your Battery and Bryan’s Chilling B-Day NightmareThat Blind Tech Show: Delta Gets it Right, Skype is Failing, How Long is Your Battery and Bryan’s Chilling B-Day NightmareTue, 27 Feb 2018 14:35:56 +0000Welcome back to another TBTS as Allison, Bryan and Jeff dig into the news and happenings around the tools and gadgets with accessibility in mind.

In Episode 12, Skype continues to Un-amuse the Blindness community with broken accessibility and mostly a usability that is failing fast. Delta Airlines enhances its policy on service dogs and basically gets it right. IOS 11.3 Beta brings us more feedback to the life of your battery and it’s shortening of life. Jeff’s battery has dropped 2 more points since the podcast was recorded. Hmm. We touch base with the Business Enterprise Program for the blind.

Allison continues to bring us Home Pod news and AirPlay2 is coming to more devices soon.

So grit your teeth and bare down as the That Blind Tech Show Episode 12 invades your privacy, and takes away your precious time but hey, it’s all about the moments we have together, the content, the unbelievable audio quality, the conciseness of delivery, the humor and lighter side the show brings and most of all, Bryan’s comedic attempts at being funny. I know, you are trying to recall a funny moment. I am with you. LOL. Bryan never reads show notes so hey, thanks for listening and have a great day.

]]>Welcome back to another TBTS as Allison, Bryan and Jeff dig into the news and happenings around the tools and gadgets with accessibility in mind.

In Episode 12, Skype continues to Un-amuse the Blindness community with broken accessibility and mostly a usability that is failing fast. Delta Airlines enhances its policy on service dogs and basically gets it right. IOS 11.3 Beta brings us more feedback to the life of your battery and it’s shortening of life. Jeff’s battery has dropped 2 more points since the podcast was recorded. Hmm. We touch base with the Business Enterprise Program for the blind.

Allison continues to bring us Home Pod news and AirPlay2 is coming to more devices soon.

So grit your teeth and bare down as the That Blind Tech Show Episode 12 invades your privacy, and takes away your precious time but hey, it’s all about the moments we have together, the content, the unbelievable audio quality, the conciseness of delivery, the humor and lighter side the show brings and most of all, Bryan’s comedic attempts at being funny. I know, you are trying to recall a funny moment. I am with you. LOL. Bryan never reads show notes so hey, thanks for listening and have a great day.

]]>47:38noHappenings around the tools and gadgets with accessibility in mind.
Skype continues to Un-amuse the Blindness community with broken accessibility and mostly a usability that is failing fast. Delta Airlines enhances its policy on service dogs 1361fullBackpacking Around the World: Tony Giles - Seeing the World My WayBackpacking Around the World: Tony Giles - Seeing the World My WayMon, 26 Feb 2018 22:43:13 +0000Backpacking Around the World: Tony Giles - Seeing the World My Way

Tony Giles has been to nearly all of the countries in the World and is setting out to Lebanon and Iraq to chalk up a few more to his continuing list of countries he has backpacked through. Totally Blind and a mind full of confidence and curiosity, Tony says that from a youngster he began traveling from school to home and to countries with common language and systems but then he wanted more challenges. From his studies and mostly his curiosity he struck out to foreign lands and cultures with his long-white-cane in hand.

Planning and researching is the key that Tony says helps him unlock the mysteries ahead of his journeys. Knowing what you are stepping into from the plane, train or motorized scooter taxi, having destinations makes his travel more of a reality than just dropping into a new world.

Join Tony Giles, Tony The Traveller, as he talks about his youth, coming to the Americas and to over 120 other countries around the World.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

Tony Giles has been to nearly all of the countries in the World and is setting out to Lebanon and Iraq to chalk up a few more to his continuing list of countries he has backpacked through. Totally Blind and a mind full of confidence and curiosity, Tony says that from a youngster he began traveling from school to home and to countries with common language and systems but then he wanted more challenges. From his studies and mostly his curiosity he struck out to foreign lands and cultures with his long-white-cane in hand.

Planning and researching is the key that Tony says helps him unlock the mysteries ahead of his journeys. Knowing what you are stepping into from the plane, train or motorized scooter taxi, having destinations makes his travel more of a reality than just dropping into a new world.

Join Tony Giles, Tony The Traveller, as he talks about his youth, coming to the Americas and to over 120 other countries around the World.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

]]>33:33noTony Giles has been to nearly all of the countries in the World and is setting out to Lebanon and Iraq to chalk up a few more to his continuing list of countries he has backpacked through. Totally Blind... 1360fullBy Popular Demand: Aira Presents Hash Tag Aira Bowl, A Comprehensive Wrap-up of a Phenomenal Event!By Popular Demand: Aira Presents Hash Tag Aira Bowl, A Comprehensive Wrap-up of a Phenomenal Event!Sat, 24 Feb 2018 17:49:11 +0000Aira Presents Hash Tag Aira Bowl, A Comprehensive Wrap-up of a Phenomenal Event!

Aira presents this Blind Abilities production of a full wrap-up of the Hash Tag Aira bowl event. As millions around the world viewed the 2018 Super bowl on NBC TV, thousands of blind and visually impaired listeners heard, for the first time in history, a complete audio-described narrative of the game, the commercials and all of the related activities around the event. Blind Abilities brings you an in depth “debriefing” interview with Aira’s Director of Product Management, Greg stilson, along with comments from Aira Agent Analysts Emily Hill and Patrick Lane with their perspective on the happenings. we have also provided dozens of clips of realtime game audio depicting Patrick’s and Emily’s outstanding description skills throughout the event.

Hear about Greg’s Super bowl Sunday, beginning with his time at the Stub Hub Fan Experience, his mile-long journey from the Twins Park to the Stadium, courtesy of Aira Agent David. then listen as Greg tells about the equipment he used to give him more than 7 and a half hours of uninterrupted service on his glasses, and a peak into a new set of glasses being developed by Aira. Listen as Emily deftly describes the Justin Timberlake half-time show and enjoy the thrilling game action with dialog between Greg and Patrick.

If you weren’t able to join the live broadcast, or even if you did, sit back and enjoy this dynamic presentation of a monumental “first of its kind” phenomenon, brought to you by Aira and blind Abilities.

Aira presents this Blind Abilities production of a full wrap-up of the Hash Tag Aira bowl event. As millions around the world viewed the 2018 Super bowl on NBC TV, thousands of blind and visually impaired listeners heard, for the first time in history, a complete audio-described narrative of the game, the commercials and all of the related activities around the event. Blind Abilities brings you an in depth “debriefing” interview with Aira’s Director of Product Management, Greg stilson, along with comments from Aira Agent Analysts Emily Hill and Patrick Lane with their perspective on the happenings. we have also provided dozens of clips of realtime game audio depicting Patrick’s and Emily’s outstanding description skills throughout the event.

Hear about Greg’s Super bowl Sunday, beginning with his time at the Stub Hub Fan Experience, his mile-long journey from the Twins Park to the Stadium, courtesy of Aira Agent David. then listen as Greg tells about the equipment he used to give him more than 7 and a half hours of uninterrupted service on his glasses, and a peak into a new set of glasses being developed by Aira. Listen as Emily deftly describes the Justin Timberlake half-time show and enjoy the thrilling game action with dialog between Greg and Patrick.

If you weren’t able to join the live broadcast, or even if you did, sit back and enjoy this dynamic presentation of a monumental “first of its kind” phenomenon, brought to you by Aira and blind Abilities.

]]>48:32noAira presents this Blind Abilities production of a full wrap-up of the Hash Tag Aira bowl event. As millions around the world viewed the 2018 Super bowl...1359fullMeet Pioneer for Employment and Advocate Sassy Outwater-Wright and MABVI, First Partners in the Aira Employer NetworkMeet Pioneer for Employment and Advocate Sassy Outwater-Wright and MABVI, First Partners in the Aira Employer NetworkThu, 22 Feb 2018 23:01:13 +0000Aira presents this Blind Abilities production of an interview with Sassy Outwater-Wright. Sassy is the Director of the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. MABVI is the first business partner to join the new Aira Employer Network, whose objective is to increase BVI employment across the nation by allowing businesses to purchase and provide free access to Aira for employees. Listen as Sassy describes the enthusiasm she felt as she chatted with Aira, and the significant benefits this program offers to MABVI and employers everywhere.

Pete, Jeff and Sassy discuss Sassy’s myriad duties as Director of this nonprofit organization which serves the state of Massachusetts and beyond, with various programs, including the VIBRANT Program leveraging multiple volunteers to teach seniors and others in the community, Team With A Vision, whose marketing strategy promotes MABVI’s role, her thoughts about the Aira technology and its potential in the future, and more. Listen to Sassy’s views on the BVI community, its interdependence for skill-building, the “silver tsunami” and her advice to transition-aged students moving from high school to college and/or into the workforce. Join blind Abilities for this insightful conversation with a leader in blindness advocacy and a pioneer for the employment of the blind and visually impaired. Check out more information about MABVI at: MABVI.Org

The advent of the Aira Employer Network coincides with the February 19, 2018, announcement of the Aira Employment Program in which Aira Explorers will receive free service for job-seeking purposes. Find more on these new programs at: Aira.IO

]]>Aira presents this Blind Abilities production of an interview with Sassy Outwater-Wright. Sassy is the Director of the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. MABVI is the first business partner to join the new Aira Employer Network, whose objective is to increase BVI employment across the nation by allowing businesses to purchase and provide free access to Aira for employees. Listen as Sassy describes the enthusiasm she felt as she chatted with Aira, and the significant benefits this program offers to MABVI and employers everywhere.

Pete, Jeff and Sassy discuss Sassy’s myriad duties as Director of this nonprofit organization which serves the state of Massachusetts and beyond, with various programs, including the VIBRANT Program leveraging multiple volunteers to teach seniors and others in the community, Team With A Vision, whose marketing strategy promotes MABVI’s role, her thoughts about the Aira technology and its potential in the future, and more. Listen to Sassy’s views on the BVI community, its interdependence for skill-building, the “silver tsunami” and her advice to transition-aged students moving from high school to college and/or into the workforce. Join blind Abilities for this insightful conversation with a leader in blindness advocacy and a pioneer for the employment of the blind and visually impaired. Check out more information about MABVI at: MABVI.Org

The advent of the Aira Employer Network coincides with the February 19, 2018, announcement of the Aira Employment Program in which Aira Explorers will receive free service for job-seeking purposes. Find more on these new programs at: Aira.IO

]]>26:57noSassy is the Director of the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. MABVI is the first business partner to join the new Aira Employer Network, whose objective is to increase BVI employment across the nation... 1358fullSyrup Isn't Lemmon Juice: Finding Bottle Labels With Various Free Apps #TapTapSee #BeSpecular #SeeingAI #BeMyEyesSat, 10 Feb 2018 19:25:48 +0000Syrup Isn’t Lemmon Juice: Finding Bottle Labels With Various Free Apps #TapTapSee #BeSpecular #SeeingAI #BeMyEyes

By Jessica Hodges

Pecan pie is delicious, the day is young, and my oven is hot. Music is playing, and the filling for my pie is almost done. I am content. Then I taste the filling, and immediately reach for a glass of water. I was such an idiot. What I thought had been corn syrup had actually been lemon juice, which doesn't go with pecans at all! This wouldn't happen if I was more organized or took the time to read bottle labels. Sighing, I throw out the filling, and start again. This time, when I get to the corn syrup, I pull out my phone.

There are many different free services designed to let a blind person know what something is. Some of the results are very instantaneous, and some take a minute or two. Some rely on you to take the picture, while some connect you to someone. Flicking through my phone screen, I think through my options.

Tap tap see is an app that has been around for a long time. Currently free, the app helps you focus by small sound cues. When you hear one, the camera has focus on something, and you can take the picture. With it's simple, five button interface, it's a good one to reach for if you want something simple, like product identification, the color of something, etc. I consider it the roughest, quickest app to use, like a small broom. The answers are part computer generated, part human answers, so you could get something as specific as, "Bottle of Corn Syrup," or as vague as, "Bottle on Countertop." Still, because of its simplicity and quick answering system, this is often the first thing I turn to. Today it fails me however, as all it says is “Plastic bottle,"

Bespecular is often next on my list. All human, I sometimes consider it the next step up from tap tap see, It allows you to take a picture, or a group of pictures, and record or type a question. That question is then pushed via notification to sighted volunteers, who either record or type the answer. You can get as many replies as you like, it isn't limited to one. You get a notification each time someone replies to your question. Although I have not used this app as much as the others, getting a response can take just a couple of minutes. This app does require an account, but they've never spammed me. While this could probably work, it gives no guidance on taking a picture, and it seems a little more in depth than I want to go for a simple bottle identification, so I move on.

Seeing AI is usually where I go after tap tap see for this sort of thing. A friend described this as a Swiss army knife of an app, and I couldn't agree more. They've split the various functions of the app into different channels you can activate via a picker at the bottom of the screen. That app would almost beg for a blog post of its own, since it can also identify money, try and describe scenes and faces, read documents, and more. The two channels I want today are the short text channel and the product channel. The short text channel acts as a scanner, constantly looking in front of the phone for any text it can read. It acts sort of like a glance, without having to take a picture in frame. This is useful for reading things off the sides of things, which sometimes can get you enough to know what an object is. The product channel acts as a barcode scanner, beeping helpfully when it gets close to a barcode. The faster it beeps, the closer you are. Once the barcode is detected, a window pops up with all the info on whatever you were scanning. When using the short text feature, I was able to get something about glucose, which told me I indeed had the syrup.

If none of these apps had worked, I could have used be my eyes. Be my eyes is an app that places free video calls between blind people, and sighted volunteers. The connections are usually quick, and the people connected usually have a good grasp of English. This is usually a fast, and failsafe way to get something done, so if I have several things I need, this is often what I use. They now have over eight hundred thousand volunteers, and they've grown a lot since their inception. Because it's a video connection, it can have a variety of use cases when you need an answer fast. I’ve already found the bottle though, so I didn’t need to pull this app.

Having located the bottle in question, I quickly finished the filling for my pie, and texted a friend saying the pie was in the oven, and sorry for the delay. She called, and I explained about the lemon juice mix up.

"You know you could have just tasted it, right?"

I felt so, so stupid! Of course, lemon juice and syrup don't taste at all the same, and it could have saved me time, not to mention my phone's battery. She reminded me that though there are a plethora of apps in existence, sometimes you don't need them. But I hope my silliness at least got you to think about the different apps, and how they can be used. There are many, many more that I didn't include in this article, so it's always good to do some research on your own and find what works for you. But whether you're identifying different cans, trying to figure out which shirt says, "God bless all Unicorns," or you're just trying to figure out what button does what on the newfangled coffee machine you brought home, I hope you can better find the app you need.

BeSpecular is the best way to do a good deed so that even when you have a busy schedule, you can help someone who’s blind. As a blind/visually impaired person, you can ask text/voice questions and receive quick replies that are friendly and helpful.

Do you want to help/volunteer in your community, but you don’t have the time?

Helping your community should be simple, convenient, and fun.

Now you can help someone who’s blind by using your smartphone. You can spend a few seconds listening to the question, look at the picture(s), and reply with a friendly voice note or text message.

You can:

-Use your eyes and intuition which no computer can replace,

-Help blind or visually impaired people from around the world,

-Learn what it’s like to live blind,

-Do a good deed and feel amazing,

-Make a real contribution to someone else’s life.

Are you blind or visually impaired & need that extra little bit of help?

You should be able to conveniently ask your questions and know that someone who’s sighted will happily and quickly be able to help.

Now you’re able to personalize your questions to find out exactly what you’re looking for. You can upload or take photos and ask with a voice/text message. You’ll receive as many friendly and helpful replies as you need.

You can:

-Ask your question and receive your reply shortly,

-Use the app in various situations, e.g. getting more detailed descriptions of items you’d like to buy online, read the ad insert you found in the mail, understand what’s going on with your computer when your Screen Reader won’t work, re-live memories with beautiful descriptions of your photographs, etc,

-Remain on a first-name basis and not have to reveal any personal info,

Access visual assistance on demand, if you are blind or visually impaired, or lend your eyes to the blind or visually impaired if you are sighted.

Be My Eyes is all about connecting blind or visually impaired with sighted volunteers, to help the blind or visually impaired lead more independent lives. Benefiting and contributing to the community is easy.

Blind or visually impaired users can request help from a sighted volunteer, who will receive a notification. As soon as the first sighted user accepts the request, a live audio-video connection will be established between the two parts. The sighted helper can now assist the blind or visually impaired, through the video connection from the blind or visually impaired user’s rear-facing camera.

As a sighted user, you are part of the big Be My Eyes volunteer-network, so don’t worry about leaving a blind person hanging, if you are not able to answer a request. We will simply forward the request and find the next available volunteer.

The blind or visually impaired user can need help with anything from knowing the expiry date on the milk, to making sure that their clothes match.

- Live audio-video connection between blind or visually impaired and sighted users

- 90 % of calls answered within 30 seconds

- Add the languages you speak in settings

An easy way to make a difference for blind or visually impaired people

Seeing AI is a free app that narrates the world around you. Designed for the blind and low vision community, this ongoing research project harnesses the power of AI to open up the visual world and describe nearby people, text and objects.

Optimized for use with VoiceOver, the app enables you to recognize:

Short Text - Speaks text as soon as it appears in front of the camera.

Documents - Provides audio guidance to capture a printed page, and recognizes the text, along with its original formatting.

Pecan pie is delicious, the day is young, and my oven is hot. Music is playing, and the filling for my pie is almost done. I am content. Then I taste the filling, and immediately reach for a glass of water. I was such an idiot. What I thought had been corn syrup had actually been lemon juice, which doesn't go with pecans at all! This wouldn't happen if I was more organized or took the time to read bottle labels. Sighing, I throw out the filling, and start again. This time, when I get to the corn syrup, I pull out my phone.

There are many different free services designed to let a blind person know what something is. Some of the results are very instantaneous, and some take a minute or two. Some rely on you to take the picture, while some connect you to someone. Flicking through my phone screen, I think through my options.

Tap tap see is an app that has been around for a long time. Currently free, the app helps you focus by small sound cues. When you hear one, the camera has focus on something, and you can take the picture. With it's simple, five button interface, it's a good one to reach for if you want something simple, like product identification, the color of something, etc. I consider it the roughest, quickest app to use, like a small broom. The answers are part computer generated, part human answers, so you could get something as specific as, "Bottle of Corn Syrup," or as vague as, "Bottle on Countertop." Still, because of its simplicity and quick answering system, this is often the first thing I turn to. Today it fails me however, as all it says is “Plastic bottle,"

Bespecular is often next on my list. All human, I sometimes consider it the next step up from tap tap see, It allows you to take a picture, or a group of pictures, and record or type a question. That question is then pushed via notification to sighted volunteers, who either record or type the answer. You can get as many replies as you like, it isn't limited to one. You get a notification each time someone replies to your question. Although I have not used this app as much as the others, getting a response can take just a couple of minutes. This app does require an account, but they've never spammed me. While this could probably work, it gives no guidance on taking a picture, and it seems a little more in depth than I want to go for a simple bottle identification, so I move on.

Seeing AI is usually where I go after tap tap see for this sort of thing. A friend described this as a Swiss army knife of an app, and I couldn't agree more. They've split the various functions of the app into different channels you can activate via a picker at the bottom of the screen. That app would almost beg for a blog post of its own, since it can also identify money, try and describe scenes and faces, read documents, and more. The two channels I want today are the short text channel and the product channel. The short text channel acts as a scanner, constantly looking in front of the phone for any text it can read. It acts sort of like a glance, without having to take a picture in frame. This is useful for reading things off the sides of things, which sometimes can get you enough to know what an object is. The product channel acts as a barcode scanner, beeping helpfully when it gets close to a barcode. The faster it beeps, the closer you are. Once the barcode is detected, a window pops up with all the info on whatever you were scanning. When using the short text feature, I was able to get something about glucose, which told me I indeed had the syrup.

If none of these apps had worked, I could have used be my eyes. Be my eyes is an app that places free video calls between blind people, and sighted volunteers. The connections are usually quick, and the people connected usually have a good grasp of English. This is usually a fast, and failsafe way to get something done, so if I have several things I need, this is often what I use. They now have over eight hundred thousand volunteers, and they've grown a lot since their inception. Because it's a video connection, it can have a variety of use cases when you need an answer fast. I’ve already found the bottle though, so I didn’t need to pull this app.

Having located the bottle in question, I quickly finished the filling for my pie, and texted a friend saying the pie was in the oven, and sorry for the delay. She called, and I explained about the lemon juice mix up.

"You know you could have just tasted it, right?"

I felt so, so stupid! Of course, lemon juice and syrup don't taste at all the same, and it could have saved me time, not to mention my phone's battery. She reminded me that though there are a plethora of apps in existence, sometimes you don't need them. But I hope my silliness at least got you to think about the different apps, and how they can be used. There are many, many more that I didn't include in this article, so it's always good to do some research on your own and find what works for you. But whether you're identifying different cans, trying to figure out which shirt says, "God bless all Unicorns," or you're just trying to figure out what button does what on the newfangled coffee machine you brought home, I hope you can better find the app you need.

BeSpecular is the best way to do a good deed so that even when you have a busy schedule, you can help someone who’s blind. As a blind/visually impaired person, you can ask text/voice questions and receive quick replies that are friendly and helpful.

Do you want to help/volunteer in your community, but you don’t have the time?

Helping your community should be simple, convenient, and fun.

Now you can help someone who’s blind by using your smartphone. You can spend a few seconds listening to the question, look at the picture(s), and reply with a friendly voice note or text message.

You can:

-Use your eyes and intuition which no computer can replace,

-Help blind or visually impaired people from around the world,

-Learn what it’s like to live blind,

-Do a good deed and feel amazing,

-Make a real contribution to someone else’s life.

Are you blind or visually impaired & need that extra little bit of help?

You should be able to conveniently ask your questions and know that someone who’s sighted will happily and quickly be able to help.

Now you’re able to personalize your questions to find out exactly what you’re looking for. You can upload or take photos and ask with a voice/text message. You’ll receive as many friendly and helpful replies as you need.

You can:

-Ask your question and receive your reply shortly,

-Use the app in various situations, e.g. getting more detailed descriptions of items you’d like to buy online, read the ad insert you found in the mail, understand what’s going on with your computer when your Screen Reader won’t work, re-live memories with beautiful descriptions of your photographs, etc,

-Remain on a first-name basis and not have to reveal any personal info,

Access visual assistance on demand, if you are blind or visually impaired, or lend your eyes to the blind or visually impaired if you are sighted.

Be My Eyes is all about connecting blind or visually impaired with sighted volunteers, to help the blind or visually impaired lead more independent lives. Benefiting and contributing to the community is easy.

Blind or visually impaired users can request help from a sighted volunteer, who will receive a notification. As soon as the first sighted user accepts the request, a live audio-video connection will be established between the two parts. The sighted helper can now assist the blind or visually impaired, through the video connection from the blind or visually impaired user’s rear-facing camera.

As a sighted user, you are part of the big Be My Eyes volunteer-network, so don’t worry about leaving a blind person hanging, if you are not able to answer a request. We will simply forward the request and find the next available volunteer.

The blind or visually impaired user can need help with anything from knowing the expiry date on the milk, to making sure that their clothes match.

- Live audio-video connection between blind or visually impaired and sighted users

- 90 % of calls answered within 30 seconds

- Add the languages you speak in settings

An easy way to make a difference for blind or visually impaired people

Seeing AI is a free app that narrates the world around you. Designed for the blind and low vision community, this ongoing research project harnesses the power of AI to open up the visual world and describe nearby people, text and objects.

Optimized for use with VoiceOver, the app enables you to recognize:

Short Text - Speaks text as soon as it appears in front of the camera.

Documents - Provides audio guidance to capture a printed page, and recognizes the text, along with its original formatting.

]]>I’m a Set of Abilities, Not a Disability! Meet Monique Wollan, A Success StoryI’m a Set of Abilities, Not a Disability! Meet Monique Wollan, A Success StorySat, 10 Feb 2018 00:57:55 +0000I’m a Set of Abilities, Not a Disability! Meet Monique Wollan, A Success Story

Monique Wollan joined us in the studio and talked about her journey from high school to college and the workplace. From one side of the Earth to the other, Monique traveled, lived and worked as a volunteer and an English teacher. After 10 years of being abroad Monique came to Minnesota and sought out State Services for the Blind as she wanted to get updated since technology had probably changed from a decade ago.

Monique found her present job by searching Indeed and is now happily employed, raising bees, landscaping her own backyard and reading non-fiction books on her Kindle Reader.

Join Jeff Thompson and Monique Wollan as she shares her story and her perspectives in this 30 minute interview.

Be sure to check with your State Services and find out what they can do for you. Summer programs are opening registration right now so find out and enhance your opportunities for success.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

]]>I’m a Set of Abilities, Not a Disability! Meet Monique Wollan, A Success Story

Monique Wollan joined us in the studio and talked about her journey from high school to college and the workplace. From one side of the Earth to the other, Monique traveled, lived and worked as a volunteer and an English teacher. After 10 years of being abroad Monique came to Minnesota and sought out State Services for the Blind as she wanted to get updated since technology had probably changed from a decade ago.

Monique found her present job by searching Indeed and is now happily employed, raising bees, landscaping her own backyard and reading non-fiction books on her Kindle Reader.

Join Jeff Thompson and Monique Wollan as she shares her story and her perspectives in this 30 minute interview.

Be sure to check with your State Services and find out what they can do for you. Summer programs are opening registration right now so find out and enhance your opportunities for success.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

]]>31:54noMonique Wollan joined us in the studio and talked about her journey from high school to college and the workplace. From one side of the Earth to the other, Monique traveled, lived and worked as a volunteer and an English teacher. 1357fullADA Being Attacked! Call To Action! Stop HR620! Chris Danielsen Public Relations Director on HR620ADA Being Attacked! Call To Action! Stop HR620! Chris Danielsen Public Relations Director on HR620Thu, 08 Feb 2018 02:57:28 +0000ADA Being Attacked! Call To Action! Stop HR620! Chris Danielson Public Relations Director on HR620

Chris Danielsen fills us in on HR620, a proposed law that will chip away at the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA). Join Jessica Hodges and Jeff Thompson along with the National Federation of the Blind Public Relations Director Chris Danielsen and learn more about HR620 and what you can do to help stop this attempt at dismantling the ADA.

The House of Representatives will most likely be voting next week on a bill that will strip away civil rights of people with disabilities.

HR 620 would do the following:

· Eliminate the need for businesses and other entities that offer services to the public to meet accessibility requirements until a complaint is filed against them

· Limit the ability to file a complaint unless it is in writing, specifies the exact part of the law that is being violated, whether the person complaining has made a direct complaint to the business, and whether the barrier or lack of access is permanent or temporary

· The person with a disability must then wait up to 180 days for the business to “fix” the complaint; therefore denying the person with a disability access to the services for the waiting period

· Also, a business could have more than 180 days to fix the complaint if they are making “substantial progress” to fix the complaint

This bill attacks the rights of people with disabilities because of “frivolous” law suits being brought by lawyers against businesses. This “problem” is about lawyers who are bad actors and should not be “solved” by gutting the rights of people with disabilities.

As of yesterday afternoon this is what our House folks are looking at for timelines:

Tuesday the 13th—The House Rules Committee will meet to set the process for consideration of the bill

Wed or Thursday (14th or 15th)—probable floor vote on the bill

The House leadership looks like they really want to push this through next week. Congressmen and women in the House of Representatives need to hear from the community now.

Chris Danielsen fills us in on HR620, a proposed law that will chip away at the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA). Join Jessica Hodges and Jeff Thompson along with the National Federation of the Blind Public Relations Director Chris Danielsen and learn more about HR620 and what you can do to help stop this attempt at dismantling the ADA.

The House of Representatives will most likely be voting next week on a bill that will strip away civil rights of people with disabilities.

HR 620 would do the following:

· Eliminate the need for businesses and other entities that offer services to the public to meet accessibility requirements until a complaint is filed against them

· Limit the ability to file a complaint unless it is in writing, specifies the exact part of the law that is being violated, whether the person complaining has made a direct complaint to the business, and whether the barrier or lack of access is permanent or temporary

· The person with a disability must then wait up to 180 days for the business to “fix” the complaint; therefore denying the person with a disability access to the services for the waiting period

· Also, a business could have more than 180 days to fix the complaint if they are making “substantial progress” to fix the complaint

This bill attacks the rights of people with disabilities because of “frivolous” law suits being brought by lawyers against businesses. This “problem” is about lawyers who are bad actors and should not be “solved” by gutting the rights of people with disabilities.

As of yesterday afternoon this is what our House folks are looking at for timelines:

Tuesday the 13th—The House Rules Committee will meet to set the process for consideration of the bill

Wed or Thursday (14th or 15th)—probable floor vote on the bill

The House leadership looks like they really want to push this through next week. Congressmen and women in the House of Representatives need to hear from the community now.

]]>15:01noJoin Jessica Hodges and Jeff Thompson along with the National Federation of the Blind Public Relations Director Chris Danielson and learn more about HR620 and what you can do to help stop this attempt at dismantling the ADA.1356fullYou're Invited... To a virtual Super Bowl party with Aira on Sunday Feb. 4 6PM to 10:30 PM EST.You're Invited... To a virtual Super Bowl party with Aira on Sunday Feb. 4 6PM to 10:30 PM EST.Fri, 02 Feb 2018 21:34:12 +0000You're Invited...

To a virtual Super Bowl party with Aira on Sunday, Feb 4th from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. EST.

Listen in as Aira agents Patrick and Emily provide the best-in-class live description of the game to Greg Stilson, football fan and Aira Explorer, who is attending the big game in Minneapolis, MN.

Greg will use Aira to get play-by-play visual descriptions of all the exciting action on the field, the commercials, and the half-time show. Aira agents will provide vivid audio narration as Greg sees the field for the first time, shops for souvenirs, navigates the stadium, and experiences the energy of the crowd.

The best part: you can listen to the entire experience live. While most of us will be watching from home, Aira intends to make it easier to get a little closer to the big game.

Ways to Listen

You don’t need to be a current Aira Explorer to listen in -- anyone can join the party starting at 6:00 p.m. ET by doing any of the following:

The Aira Virtual Super Bowl party is part of a live stream of Greg's experience at the big game in Minneapolis. If you are also watching the game on television, following on social media, or listening on the radio, be advised that there may be a delay.

What is Aira?

Ever spoken with an Aira Agent? Aira agents are trained and certified professionals that provide vivid descriptions and live information to people who are blind or low vision to greatly enhance an experience or to accomplish any task. From stopping for morning coffee, to making that dream journey around the globe, or experiencing an iconic sporting event; as Aira Explorers have said: “Aira agents provide audio description of life”

Advanced wearable technology with wireless access to a distributed network of trained human professionals unlocks the potential for Aira explorers to efficiently accomplish any task, big or small. Learn more about Aira at aira.io

To a virtual Super Bowl party with Aira on Sunday, Feb 4th from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. EST.

Listen in as Aira agents Patrick and Emily provide the best-in-class live description of the game to Greg Stilson, football fan and Aira Explorer, who is attending the big game in Minneapolis, MN.

Greg will use Aira to get play-by-play visual descriptions of all the exciting action on the field, the commercials, and the half-time show. Aira agents will provide vivid audio narration as Greg sees the field for the first time, shops for souvenirs, navigates the stadium, and experiences the energy of the crowd.

The best part: you can listen to the entire experience live. While most of us will be watching from home, Aira intends to make it easier to get a little closer to the big game.

Ways to Listen

You don’t need to be a current Aira Explorer to listen in -- anyone can join the party starting at 6:00 p.m. ET by doing any of the following:

The Aira Virtual Super Bowl party is part of a live stream of Greg's experience at the big game in Minneapolis. If you are also watching the game on television, following on social media, or listening on the radio, be advised that there may be a delay.

What is Aira?

Ever spoken with an Aira Agent? Aira agents are trained and certified professionals that provide vivid descriptions and live information to people who are blind or low vision to greatly enhance an experience or to accomplish any task. From stopping for morning coffee, to making that dream journey around the globe, or experiencing an iconic sporting event; as Aira Explorers have said: “Aira agents provide audio description of life”

Advanced wearable technology with wireless access to a distributed network of trained human professionals unlocks the potential for Aira explorers to efficiently accomplish any task, big or small. Learn more about Aira at aira.io

Blind Abilities presents the TVI Toolbox. Where the collaboration between Teachers, Counselors, Parents, Agencies and the Students themselves help enhance the opportunities for success.

Transitioning from high school to college and the workplace is a major step and the beginning of lifetime goals and aspirations. As Jeff Mihiletch, this month’s featured interview in the Success Stories portion of this podcast, puts it, “Braille is a tool he wished he would have given a better chance.”

From the TVI’s to the Agency counselor’s and program specialist, working together along with parents as well, is creating more opportunities and successes for Transition age students.

Sharing experiences through Success Stories, sharing programs that make a positive impact, sharing ideas, findings, upcoming events and the Tools for Success all play a part in making the transition process a natural progression and better understood by all.

On The Horizon is a bulletin space for upcoming events, information and resources submitted by listeners and our staff. You can submit to On the Horizon by emailing Jessica Hodges.

The Success Stories feature an experience of a Transition Student, whether they are attending college, preparing for college or are now employed, the Success Stories brings a positive and a sharing of the experience of transitioning from high school to college and the work place.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

Dacia: Because they don't have any experience with vision loss, so they're thinking to themselves, "I don't know if I could do that if I couldn't see right. I'm not sure that they're going to be able to do that." That's what... there inner monologue isn't about you, it's about what they think that you can't do, and their bias.

Narrator: TVI toolbox is a tool for teachers, for agencies, for clients to enhance the opportunity and the understanding of transition services. Professionals talking about the services they provide. Teachers of the visually impaired talking about topics of transitioning from high school, to college, to the work place. Students talking about their journeys, there successes, and some of the barricades and brick walls that were in there way, and solutions, tips, and tricks on how they got through it.

Dasha: We try to help them develop resumes right from the beginning. We would like some body that even as young as fifteen sixteen to have a resume that they can continuously add to, to build on. It really puts in front of them a more realistic view of "Ok, well I can add this to my resume. I can do this because I can add that. This is going to bring value." It kind of gives them more of an ownership of there experience.

Narrator: That's (probable spelling mistake here,) Dasha van Alstine. She's an employment program specialist at state services for the blind, working with clients, counselors, and employees, to optimize the opportunities for successful employment.

Dasha: I always tell people, if you go into an interview, and you're thinking that you're not the best candidate, you're probably not.

Narrator: On this episode of TVI Toolbox, we'll be talking about employment. We'll be hearing more from Dasha van Alstine, and the success story today features Jeff Mihiletch, with A BS degree in Business Administration. And Jessica Hodges with On the Horizon, where she brings you recent news and events with particular interest in the transition process with a blindness perspective. And the tools for success spotlight is Be My Eyes. It's an ap that, well, kind of speaks for itself. Now, here's employment program specialist Dasha van Alstine. Dasha, welcome to blind abilities. Can you tell our listeners what your roll is at state services?

Dasha: Hi Jeff. I am a program specialist for the employment team at state services for the blind.

Narrator: Tell us a little more about the employment team.

Dasha: The employment team works with various counselors and customers on anything from the very beginning of how to choose a job goal, all the way up to when it's time to close your case. So are you ready, do you have everything you need, do you need additional training, we're there all along the way. Whereas a counselor looks at an entire situation, we look at everything from absolute employment

Narrator: Dasha, for a transition student, what would a first meeting with the employment team look like?

Dasha: That can be at any type of stage, it depends on... if somebody has done a lot of research various...market information on their own, we might not meet with any of us until later. Someone who really needs some help and some direction with trying to figure out what they want to be, and what that's going to look like, and where the doors are going to open, they might meet with us right away.

Narrator: So first they work with state services, then when it comes time to think about employment, that's when they get handed off to the employment team?

Dasha: Well, preferably, they wouldn't just get handed off to our team. We would want to have some sort of relationship with them from the beginning. I'll give you an example. A college student, someone who knows that they're college bound know they want to go to college to get to a career, we'll look at them right before it happens and say, "Ok, what is your job goal? What do you want to do? What are the various avenues to get there." We'll work on what is the most appropriate way from point A to point B, for you, with college in the middle there. And then, in college, a lot of times there will be some check ins. We'll check on them, hey, how's it going? Have you thought about an internship yet? Are you working during school? Do you need help finding something. You know, what can we do to assist you?" We make connections for them, and sometimes we help them find part time employment, or find there internship. A lot of times, we'll work with the school to try to figure that out with them, to try to get them more independent and not depending on us. And then, when they're getting ready to graduate, sometime before the last semester, we help the figure out, you know, it's time to start looking. Because ideally, you want a job before you graduate, you want that job to be ready for you.

Narrator: Dasha: With the age of transition students, I imagine that a lot of them have not had too much job experience. Does the employment team have a component for people to learn about job interviews and filling out resumes?

Dasha: It's different for each person. That begins whenever appropriate. Some people, especially our young people, We try to help them develop resumes right from the beginning. We would like some body that even as young as fifteen sixteen to have a resume that they can continuously add to, to build on. It really puts in front of them a more realistic view of "Ok, well I can add this to my resume. I can do this because I can add that. This is going to bring value." It kind of gives them more of an ownership of there experience. Every aspect of every case is so different. There are some people that need us to do the resume and then walk them through what we did. There's other people that we just give some guidance to, and they do it. you know, everything is so individualized, it's wherever it's appropriate for each individual case.

Narrator: That's great. Dasha, there's a saying, don't judge a book by it's cover, but in the employment situation, in job interviews, can you tell us a little bit about first impressions?

Dasha: First impressions are really important, especially if you have a vision loss, because there's a really good chance that whoever you're meeting has never met someone with a vision loss before. There's no back ground there. They're going to base whatever experience they have with you, and project that onto every other person that they ever meet in the future who has a vision loss. When you meet somebody, especially if you're going in for an interview, you want to make sure that first of all, you're nice to the receptionist, because if you're not nice to the receptionist, the person interviewing you is going to find out, and you're not going to get that job. Just saying, the receptionist, that's the barrier there. Be nice to them. And second of all, once you do meet somebody, and if you have to follow them, make sure that you're comfortable, and don't be afraid to ask for information. Left or right? Where's the room? Don't be afraid to ask those kinds of directions.. With first impressions, you want to make sure that you are well put together. You want to make sure that you don't go into a business with saggy clothes, or with dirty clothes. You want to make sure that your hair is, you know, presentable, that you're not wearing baseball caps. You also want to make sure that you can speak clearly, concisely, have some confidence, that's going to be really important to an employer. Even if you're just walking in to pick up an application. Just go to the receptionist, be nice, "Hi, you know, my name is so and so. I was wondering if you're hiring. Can I get an application? Even something as simple as that. That goes a a long way. You also want to make sure that when you do talk to somebody, especially if it's an interview, you're going to get that, "Tell me about yourself." You could even get that when you meet an employer at a job fair, or an internship fair. Tell me about yourself. You want to make sure, especially if you have more of an obvious disability, you want to make sure that you kind of address that in a way that makes it so they're not thinking about that, they're thinking about your skills. A lot of people make the mistake of never saying anything, and then an employer, the whole time that they're talking is thinking well... Because they don't have any experience with vision loss, so they're thinking to themselves, "I don't know if I could do that if I couldn't see right. I'm not sure that they're going to be able to do that." That's what... there inner monologue isn't about you, it's about what they think that you can't do, and their bias. So it's up to you to make sure that you sell yourself. Sell your skills. Tell how you do things. Go into it with confidence. Know what your skills are ahead of time. Know what you have to offer the employer, and just go into it that way. And this is not just with employers. This is also useful with your professors.

Narrator: Dasha, I was just doing an interview with a business owner, Susan Robinson. She said that she'd never hired a person because they had sight. She always hired a person because she felt they could best do the job that she needed to get done

Dasha: Yes, it's all about the what can you do for me. Employers hire because they have a job that they have to get done. They don't hire because they want to feel good. They don't hire because they want to spend a bunch of money. They do it because they have a job, and they have to get it done. So your job is to make sure that they know you can do that job, and not only that, but you can bring stuff to the table so you're the person can help them get that done. You're the best candidate, and this is why I always tell people, if you go into an interview, and you're thinking that you're not the best candidate, you're probably not. If you're going into an interview, and you can't even think of what you bring to offer to the table, the employer's not going to know. It's your job, disability or not, to know what you bring to the table, and sell that. That's your job.

Narrator: Selling it!"

Dasha: "Selling it."

Narrator: "That's what it comes down to, selling yourself, letting the employer know that you have a set of abilities that will help their company succeed. Well, there's that sound, so let's turn it over to Jessica Hodges with On the Horizon.

Jessica: "Good day to you all. There are many, many lovely events coming up on the horizon. First of all, the national federation of the blind has some awesome scholarships for students both nationally and state wide. To find out more about scholarships both in your state and at the national level, you can visit www.nfb.org. On the subject of college, Perkins has a program for college students where you live on there campus for nine months, and attend school close to them. It's a good way for college students to kind of get there feet underneath them and make sure that they are really ready, and it's a great way to get started with college. You can visit there webcite to find out more. The national braille press has a guide for those who are interested in apple watches called, "You and Your Apple Watch," by Anna Dresner. You can find that on their webcite, nbp.org. Blind incorporated, the well renown training center for the national federation of the blind in Minnesota has there summer programs coming up, and that means they are looking for both students and counselors. For more information on those, you can go to their webcite, www.blindinc.org. For the style program, ,they're looking for people from July Tenth through August fifteenth, and the buddy program is also looking for people from July Tenth through August Fifteenth. For the prep counselor positions, they are looking for people from June Tenth, to August Fifteenth. The prep is the young adult program, the style is a young adult program here in Minnesota, and the buddy program is the younger children. So, if you would like to know more about that ,visit their webcite, www.blindinc.org. Minnesota has a lovely program for transition aged students called the STP program. An extended school year program, the STP, or summer transition program, is a program designed for students between tenth and eleventh grade who are planning on working competitively and working independently. To get a brochure or have paperwork sent to your school, contact Deb Peterson, dpeterson@916schools.org. If you have any events you'd like included on the next horizon, please email jessica.hodges@state.mn.us. Thank you for staying tuned, and please listen to next time, as we'll have more events on your horizon.

Narrator: Well thank you Jessica Hodges. And for more information on all the events mentioned, check the show notes. for the links. And now, our tools for success spotlight. We bring you Be My Eyes. It's an application that hooks the phone to a person that will see through your camera what you're looking at and describe it for you. It's a personal assistant. It's free from the app store, and on Android. So we're going to demonstrate the iOS device on Apple, here's Be My Eyes. Siri? Open be my eyes.

VoiceOver: Be My Eyes. Call first available volunteer, button.

Narrator: It's ready to go. With a single finger double tap, you're activated, and you're ready to call. But lets swipe right, single finger swipe left to right.

Narrator: So this is upgraded, and as you can see you can share this, you can go follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and all the rest of the stuffs there. But one important thing here is this.

VoiceOver: Send us feedback, button.

Narrator: Send us feedback. This allows you to connect up right with the developers of the app in case you have an issue. You don't have to tweet it out on Twitter and complain or anything like that on Facebook. You can just go here, and send it straight to the main office. There you go. So let's go back. I'm going to do a four finger single tap, near the top of the screen.

VoiceOver: Settings, heading.

Narrator: Swipe once to the right.

VoiceOver: Done, button.

Narrator: Single finger double tap.

VoiceOver: Call first available volunteer, button.

Narrator: All right, so at this point, if I single finger double tap, I'm getting online, so I'd better have something ready for them to do for this demonstration. I think it's coffee time.

VoiceOver Using the rear camera. Please wait. Finding the first available volunteer.

(ringing sounds)

Narrator: And this is where the be my eyes app. ..

VoiceOver: We are still trying to find an available volunteer.

Narrator: searches for someone that speaks English, someone that's in my time zone. So it searches the world basically, and tries to come up with someone who is best suited for answering my questions. Now this time varies. I've had people pick up in twelve seconds. I've had people pick up in... oh...two minutes. But typically, it's around that thirty second mark. And for privacy reasons, I've changed the voice of the volunteer so it's not detectible.

VoiceOver: Connected.

Volunteer: "Hello." (there was another word there but I couldn't for the life of me make it out.)

Narrator: Hello. Hi, how are you?

Volunteer: I'm all right, how about yourself?

Narrator: I'm all right. I have a question. I have a kurig machine here, this one.

Volunteer: Yep.

Narrator: And when I push this down, it's supposed to give me a choice here for ounces.

Volunteer: The light is hitting in a way I can't read. I think the... ok, that's better. You have... it says it's ten ounce, and there's an arrow at the top and an arrow at the bottom.

Narrator: So down here?

Volunteer: Up a little hire. Right there is where it says ten ounce, yep now it's at eight ounces. You're pushing the down button. How do you want it to be?

Narrator: I want it at eight. Is that it?

Volunteer: Ok.

Narrator: So then the other buttons up here, what are they?

Volunteer: Well, that would be increasing the amount,

Narrator: Ok,

Volunteer: and when you're ready, then you move your finger to the left

Narrator: Ok.

Volunteer: And use this button to make it go, let's see what happens.

(kurig noises)

Volunteer: It's brewing.

Narrator: Well there we go. Thank you very much.

Volunteer: You're very welcome.Have a good day."

Narrator: You too.

VoiceOver: End call, button. Alert. Are you sure you want to disconnect? No. Yes. Yes button.

Narrator: And that was a very nice volunteer. And it wasn't mini mouse, believe me. That voice was changed. And there we go. We got hot cocoa coming. All right, so after the experience is over, this is what we get.

VoiceOver: Review your experience, heading.. Thanks for your call. Please let us know if you had any problems during this call, be it either technical or personal. I experienced problems, button. I had a good call, button.

Narrator: And that's it. that's all there is to this free app. it's be my eyes in app store, and be my eyes on android in the google play store. And in this success story, we bring you Jeff Mihiletch, who has utilized the services of state services for the blind for many years, from elementary school, high school, college, and the work place. Jeff has found success, and is currently employed, and invited us down to his south Minneapolis office to chat with us. So please welcome Jeff Mihiletch. We hope you in joy.

Narrator: Welcome to blind abilities, I'm Jeff Thompson, and I'm downtown south Minneapolis with Jeff Mihiletch, and he is employed and has used state services for the blind before. How are you doing Jeff?

Jeff: Good morning, I'm doing good.

Narrator: Can you tell us a little bit about your job and what you do?

Narrator: I am Jeff Mihiletch. I work in the snap employment and training program, and that is about people that receive food support, snap benefits that they used to call food stamps. If you are an able bodied adult without dependants, it's mandatory now that you be job searching, and my team does the job searching orientation classes and case management for clients that are in that sector of the snap program. I was originally hired for data management, so my job is to look at the referrals every day of new clients coming in, all the different elements, who they are, nationality, when there orientation class is, location and time, and I put it all in a spreadsheet. Then I take that spread sheet, move it into a different spread sheet so it's statistically meant for the entire year, and that's my daily task that I do. I also have broadened my job duties a little bit. My team does orientation class three times a week for new people that are coming onto the snap EMt program. I help out here at the sabathanie center with the Tuesday morning orientation class. So it's a chance for me to get up in front of a group and talk, and move around, helps give my coworkers a little break, because they need to do that orientation class three times a week, and as you can imagine it gets a little repetitive, so they were totally thrilled when I decided to volunteer myself to help out with that orientation class.

Narrator: So Jeff, on a daily basis, what kind of accessible devices or tools do you utilize for your job?

Jeff: I use Jaws extensively. I have a little bit of vision, so I do use zoomtext sometimes, but only for spot reading, if I can't find a formula or something in my excel sheet with jaws. Primarily though, it is Jaws, almost probably ninety five, ninety eight percent of the time.

Narrator: What about in your personal life. Do you use a smart phone with access to it?

Jeff: Yeah, in my personal life I have an iPhone seven. I use VoiceOver, a couple different voices, one for Siri, one for the VoiceOver functionality of it. My work, I have a phone for my work, because the phone that is in everyone's laptops, the soft phone from Sisco, is not screen reader accessible, and so that's a reasonable accommodation, my employer provides me an iPhone for my work. So I feel kind of a little geekish, because I walk around with two phones when I'm at work, my personal phone and my work phone.

Narrator: that's status isn't it?

Jeff: I'm glad that they were able to make that accommodation and provide an iPhone for my work phone calling.

Narrator: Now Jeff, when you applied here, how did you get the job? how did accommodations work for you and what was that process like?

Jeff: The way I found the job was I had a friend of mien who was blind who works for the county, has been with the county for almost thirty years, and he got a phone call from someone, my boss, who was looking to fill a position, a newly created position. My job did not exist before. And she specifically was looking for someone that had a visual disability. And so she reached out to my friend who was blind and worked for the company to find out and assess any barriers that their were, to see how successful he was at doing his job, and to see how many barriers there were, and from there, he told me about the fact that she was looking for someone who was visually impaired to take this new job. I kind of jumped on that band wagon, and followed up with her, and long story short had an interview, and was hired. My job is not a permanent job. It's a two year contract. I'm a limited duration person, and the snap program, the food stamp program is federal funded. So the county writes my check, but salary comes from the feds, from the agricultural program.

Narrator: So Jeff, in your career, education, did you utilize state services for the blind?

Jeff: Yeah, I did. All through my education. Elementary school I had a rehab counselor that used state services for the blind all the way through that, through college went to (spelling) babija university, BS in business administration, and minor in psychology and chemical dependency. And state services for the blind helped me out with tuition and books, and that type of thing.

Narrator: Great. What is transportation like for you, working in south Minneapolis here?

Jeff: In he morning to go into work, I take metro mobility, because it's a relatively direct shot, although sometimes I can get to work in ten minutes, and sometimes two hours, so that's the downside of metro mobility. Going home at night, I do take a city bus. I have to go downtown, and transfer to an express. That's how I do transportation. Not looking forward to winter time, I will say.

Narrator: Great. So Jeff, Being someone that has used state services, who has transferred from high school to college to the work place, what suggestions would you have for someone who is in those shoes today looking towards there future?

Jeff: I would say if you are a braille user, or have the potential to be a braille user, but also use screen readers, I would really highly recommend still doing the braille thing.

Narrator: You said you use Jaws and PC. Now, in the workplace, there's always the debate, you know, should people have a PC or a Mack, and I found out myself that most businesses are Microsoft based, so what would you suggest for someone who's learning technology?

Jeff: The county uses PCs, HP brand. Actually, we just rolled out new laptops and we moved to Microsoft 2010 and office 2016. I mean it all depends on the work environment, but you are correct most of the time that it's PC based.

Narrator: Jeff, do you want to talk about some of your past jobs?

Jeff: Sure. A lot of my job history is kind of broken into clumps. The first is social service, working with developmentally delayed adults, and the second chunk of job history is kind of more customer service type. So the first part, the social service, I kind of fell into that. I moved to Minneapolis after finishing my degree at Bemidji state university, and was really-really desperate for a job, couldn't find one, and it was to the point that I couldn't afford my apartment. I took a job as a live in in a group home for developmentally delayed adults. A good chunk is a little more customer service related, I worked in a large call center for computer hardware dispatch, so I was doing in bound calls with customers and technicians out in the field. Some other jobs I had over the years. I had a really really short gig. I was a very small commodities broker. I found the job through one of the venders that state services for the blind hires. They were looking for someone to do phone work and I was hired and given the job. But the screen reader didn't work at all with their customer management web page that they had. We tried to make it work. After six weeks they let me go, just because it wasn't working out. I also worked for a guy who ran one of the vending stands in saintpaul, and I would fill in for him in the concessions stand while he was out in the field filling vending machines. Did that for a while, and some other kind of odd jobs. I actually at one time was self employed. I went to massage school, became a massage therapist, and tried to do that to make a living. It's a really hard field. It's very seasonal. So that's a little overview of some of my job history.

Narrator: Sounds like you're a real go getter. people feel insecure about going into job interviews and that process. And it can be daunting to someone that hasn't done it before. What's your experience like when you go into a job interview?

Jeff: The interview process itself, I mean, I'm a partial vision, and it's always difficult to know whether to disclose that up front or not. And though there were times in my life when I would disclose that on the phone up front, and then there were other times when I did not. And it's hard to know if disclosing it up front would automatically disqualify me even before I walked in, or if walking in with a white cane and bumping against a desk or a coffee table or something would have disqualified me. It's always a big debate when you're a partial whether or not to disclose it. that was the one nice thing about my current job. My boss is aware of my current disability and I did not have to deal with that disclosure type thing. I had to deal with coworkers a little bit, and that was a challenge. Again, because I'm partial, I can see to navigate a little bit, but you know, I can't figure out who people are until they say something. When you're a partial, it's harder for other people to grasp of what you can and can't see.

Narrator: Jeff, did you ever go through a training center?

Jeff: I did. When I was in seventh grade I did a summer school thing at fairbolt. As an adult I did a couple different stints at VLR, adjustment to blindness training program. The focus for both of those times when I went was Jaws and screen readers. But I also did cooking class, the independent skills, worked in the wood shop, which was a really eye opening experience so to speak. I'd never used a table saw. I'd never used a router, that kind of thing. And it was so cool to actually create something myself out of a chunk of wood and have the skill set to do that. Yeah, I've been to VLR a couple times, they do really good stuff. I highly recommend them. And they were the ones the second time through. They were the ones that got me to Jaws. Because before, I would really try to use zoomtext as much as I could, and it was causing headaches and back strain, because I was leaning forward too much. So the second time I went through, I said, "I really want to get to the point where I can faze out magnification and just do jaws mostly. And so they got me to the point where I could use it exclusively and functionally. Yeah, the adjustment to blindness centers were very helpful.

Narrator: That's vision loss resources on Franklin and Lyndale down in Minneapolis. Well, I want to thank you for coming on to blind abilities and sharing your story, your journey, thank you very much.

Jeff: You are welcome. Hopefully my perspective is useful and helpful for you young people out there, you know, in the path of education and early job searching. Good luck to you, and I wish I would have had this technology when I was going to college. It would have made my college experience much easier, much less stressful, maybe a few less gray hairs.

Narrator: I don't think we can get around the hairs, we can blame it on whatever we want but... well thank you very much Jeff.

Jeff: Thank you very much

Narrator: It was a real pleasure talking to Jeff Mihiletch and learning about his transitional journey from high school to college to the workplace, and his experiences job to job. And you can find out more about state services for the blind and the services they can offer you on the web at https://mn.gov/deed/ssb. And in other states, be sure to contact your state services, and see what services they have for you. And be sure to check the show notes for the American foundation of the blind. They have a link to all the state services in all the states. Stay tuned next month where we bring you episode three of TVI toolbox. And a big thank you goes out to CheeChau for his beautiful music that we use for the podcast. Thank you CheeChau. You can follow Cheechau on Twitter @lcheechau. Thanks for listening, we hope you enjoyed, and until next time, by by.

Blind Abilities presents the TVI Toolbox. Where the collaboration between Teachers, Counselors, Parents, Agencies and the Students themselves help enhance the opportunities for success.

Transitioning from high school to college and the workplace is a major step and the beginning of lifetime goals and aspirations. As Jeff Mihiletch, this month’s featured interview in the Success Stories portion of this podcast, puts it, “Braille is a tool he wished he would have given a better chance.”

From the TVI’s to the Agency counselor’s and program specialist, working together along with parents as well, is creating more opportunities and successes for Transition age students.

Sharing experiences through Success Stories, sharing programs that make a positive impact, sharing ideas, findings, upcoming events and the Tools for Success all play a part in making the transition process a natural progression and better understood by all.

On The Horizon is a bulletin space for upcoming events, information and resources submitted by listeners and our staff. You can submit to On the Horizon by emailing Jessica Hodges.

The Success Stories feature an experience of a Transition Student, whether they are attending college, preparing for college or are now employed, the Success Stories brings a positive and a sharing of the experience of transitioning from high school to college and the work place.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

Dacia: Because they don't have any experience with vision loss, so they're thinking to themselves, "I don't know if I could do that if I couldn't see right. I'm not sure that they're going to be able to do that." That's what... there inner monologue isn't about you, it's about what they think that you can't do, and their bias.

Narrator: TVI toolbox is a tool for teachers, for agencies, for clients to enhance the opportunity and the understanding of transition services. Professionals talking about the services they provide. Teachers of the visually impaired talking about topics of transitioning from high school, to college, to the work place. Students talking about their journeys, there successes, and some of the barricades and brick walls that were in there way, and solutions, tips, and tricks on how they got through it.

Dasha: We try to help them develop resumes right from the beginning. We would like some body that even as young as fifteen sixteen to have a resume that they can continuously add to, to build on. It really puts in front of them a more realistic view of "Ok, well I can add this to my resume. I can do this because I can add that. This is going to bring value." It kind of gives them more of an ownership of there experience.

Narrator: That's (probable spelling mistake here,) Dasha van Alstine. She's an employment program specialist at state services for the blind, working with clients, counselors, and employees, to optimize the opportunities for successful employment.

Dasha: I always tell people, if you go into an interview, and you're thinking that you're not the best candidate, you're probably not.

Narrator: On this episode of TVI Toolbox, we'll be talking about employment. We'll be hearing more from Dasha van Alstine, and the success story today features Jeff Mihiletch, with A BS degree in Business Administration. And Jessica Hodges with On the Horizon, where she brings you recent news and events with particular interest in the transition process with a blindness perspective. And the tools for success spotlight is Be My Eyes. It's an ap that, well, kind of speaks for itself. Now, here's employment program specialist Dasha van Alstine. Dasha, welcome to blind abilities. Can you tell our listeners what your roll is at state services?

Dasha: Hi Jeff. I am a program specialist for the employment team at state services for the blind.

Narrator: Tell us a little more about the employment team.

Dasha: The employment team works with various counselors and customers on anything from the very beginning of how to choose a job goal, all the way up to when it's time to close your case. So are you ready, do you have everything you need, do you need additional training, we're there all along the way. Whereas a counselor looks at an entire situation, we look at everything from absolute employment

Narrator: Dasha, for a transition student, what would a first meeting with the employment team look like?

Dasha: That can be at any type of stage, it depends on... if somebody has done a lot of research various...market information on their own, we might not meet with any of us until later. Someone who really needs some help and some direction with trying to figure out what they want to be, and what that's going to look like, and where the doors are going to open, they might meet with us right away.

Narrator: So first they work with state services, then when it comes time to think about employment, that's when they get handed off to the employment team?

Dasha: Well, preferably, they wouldn't just get handed off to our team. We would want to have some sort of relationship with them from the beginning. I'll give you an example. A college student, someone who knows that they're college bound know they want to go to college to get to a career, we'll look at them right before it happens and say, "Ok, what is your job goal? What do you want to do? What are the various avenues to get there." We'll work on what is the most appropriate way from point A to point B, for you, with college in the middle there. And then, in college, a lot of times there will be some check ins. We'll check on them, hey, how's it going? Have you thought about an internship yet? Are you working during school? Do you need help finding something. You know, what can we do to assist you?" We make connections for them, and sometimes we help them find part time employment, or find there internship. A lot of times, we'll work with the school to try to figure that out with them, to try to get them more independent and not depending on us. And then, when they're getting ready to graduate, sometime before the last semester, we help the figure out, you know, it's time to start looking. Because ideally, you want a job before you graduate, you want that job to be ready for you.

Narrator: Dasha: With the age of transition students, I imagine that a lot of them have not had too much job experience. Does the employment team have a component for people to learn about job interviews and filling out resumes?

Dasha: It's different for each person. That begins whenever appropriate. Some people, especially our young people, We try to help them develop resumes right from the beginning. We would like some body that even as young as fifteen sixteen to have a resume that they can continuously add to, to build on. It really puts in front of them a more realistic view of "Ok, well I can add this to my resume. I can do this because I can add that. This is going to bring value." It kind of gives them more of an ownership of there experience. Every aspect of every case is so different. There are some people that need us to do the resume and then walk them through what we did. There's other people that we just give some guidance to, and they do it. you know, everything is so individualized, it's wherever it's appropriate for each individual case.

Narrator: That's great. Dasha, there's a saying, don't judge a book by it's cover, but in the employment situation, in job interviews, can you tell us a little bit about first impressions?

Dasha: First impressions are really important, especially if you have a vision loss, because there's a really good chance that whoever you're meeting has never met someone with a vision loss before. There's no back ground there. They're going to base whatever experience they have with you, and project that onto every other person that they ever meet in the future who has a vision loss. When you meet somebody, especially if you're going in for an interview, you want to make sure that first of all, you're nice to the receptionist, because if you're not nice to the receptionist, the person interviewing you is going to find out, and you're not going to get that job. Just saying, the receptionist, that's the barrier there. Be nice to them. And second of all, once you do meet somebody, and if you have to follow them, make sure that you're comfortable, and don't be afraid to ask for information. Left or right? Where's the room? Don't be afraid to ask those kinds of directions.. With first impressions, you want to make sure that you are well put together. You want to make sure that you don't go into a business with saggy clothes, or with dirty clothes. You want to make sure that your hair is, you know, presentable, that you're not wearing baseball caps. You also want to make sure that you can speak clearly, concisely, have some confidence, that's going to be really important to an employer. Even if you're just walking in to pick up an application. Just go to the receptionist, be nice, "Hi, you know, my name is so and so. I was wondering if you're hiring. Can I get an application? Even something as simple as that. That goes a a long way. You also want to make sure that when you do talk to somebody, especially if it's an interview, you're going to get that, "Tell me about yourself." You could even get that when you meet an employer at a job fair, or an internship fair. Tell me about yourself. You want to make sure, especially if you have more of an obvious disability, you want to make sure that you kind of address that in a way that makes it so they're not thinking about that, they're thinking about your skills. A lot of people make the mistake of never saying anything, and then an employer, the whole time that they're talking is thinking well... Because they don't have any experience with vision loss, so they're thinking to themselves, "I don't know if I could do that if I couldn't see right. I'm not sure that they're going to be able to do that." That's what... there inner monologue isn't about you, it's about what they think that you can't do, and their bias. So it's up to you to make sure that you sell yourself. Sell your skills. Tell how you do things. Go into it with confidence. Know what your skills are ahead of time. Know what you have to offer the employer, and just go into it that way. And this is not just with employers. This is also useful with your professors.

Narrator: Dasha, I was just doing an interview with a business owner, Susan Robinson. She said that she'd never hired a person because they had sight. She always hired a person because she felt they could best do the job that she needed to get done

Dasha: Yes, it's all about the what can you do for me. Employers hire because they have a job that they have to get done. They don't hire because they want to feel good. They don't hire because they want to spend a bunch of money. They do it because they have a job, and they have to get it done. So your job is to make sure that they know you can do that job, and not only that, but you can bring stuff to the table so you're the person can help them get that done. You're the best candidate, and this is why I always tell people, if you go into an interview, and you're thinking that you're not the best candidate, you're probably not. If you're going into an interview, and you can't even think of what you bring to offer to the table, the employer's not going to know. It's your job, disability or not, to know what you bring to the table, and sell that. That's your job.

Narrator: Selling it!"

Dasha: "Selling it."

Narrator: "That's what it comes down to, selling yourself, letting the employer know that you have a set of abilities that will help their company succeed. Well, there's that sound, so let's turn it over to Jessica Hodges with On the Horizon.

Jessica: "Good day to you all. There are many, many lovely events coming up on the horizon. First of all, the national federation of the blind has some awesome scholarships for students both nationally and state wide. To find out more about scholarships both in your state and at the national level, you can visit www.nfb.org. On the subject of college, Perkins has a program for college students where you live on there campus for nine months, and attend school close to them. It's a good way for college students to kind of get there feet underneath them and make sure that they are really ready, and it's a great way to get started with college. You can visit there webcite to find out more. The national braille press has a guide for those who are interested in apple watches called, "You and Your Apple Watch," by Anna Dresner. You can find that on their webcite, nbp.org. Blind incorporated, the well renown training center for the national federation of the blind in Minnesota has there summer programs coming up, and that means they are looking for both students and counselors. For more information on those, you can go to their webcite, www.blindinc.org. For the style program, ,they're looking for people from July Tenth through August fifteenth, and the buddy program is also looking for people from July Tenth through August Fifteenth. For the prep counselor positions, they are looking for people from June Tenth, to August Fifteenth. The prep is the young adult program, the style is a young adult program here in Minnesota, and the buddy program is the younger children. So, if you would like to know more about that ,visit their webcite, www.blindinc.org. Minnesota has a lovely program for transition aged students called the STP program. An extended school year program, the STP, or summer transition program, is a program designed for students between tenth and eleventh grade who are planning on working competitively and working independently. To get a brochure or have paperwork sent to your school, contact Deb Peterson, dpeterson@916schools.org. If you have any events you'd like included on the next horizon, please email jessica.hodges@state.mn.us. Thank you for staying tuned, and please listen to next time, as we'll have more events on your horizon.

Narrator: Well thank you Jessica Hodges. And for more information on all the events mentioned, check the show notes. for the links. And now, our tools for success spotlight. We bring you Be My Eyes. It's an application that hooks the phone to a person that will see through your camera what you're looking at and describe it for you. It's a personal assistant. It's free from the app store, and on Android. So we're going to demonstrate the iOS device on Apple, here's Be My Eyes. Siri? Open be my eyes.

VoiceOver: Be My Eyes. Call first available volunteer, button.

Narrator: It's ready to go. With a single finger double tap, you're activated, and you're ready to call. But lets swipe right, single finger swipe left to right.

Narrator: So this is upgraded, and as you can see you can share this, you can go follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and all the rest of the stuffs there. But one important thing here is this.

VoiceOver: Send us feedback, button.

Narrator: Send us feedback. This allows you to connect up right with the developers of the app in case you have an issue. You don't have to tweet it out on Twitter and complain or anything like that on Facebook. You can just go here, and send it straight to the main office. There you go. So let's go back. I'm going to do a four finger single tap, near the top of the screen.

VoiceOver: Settings, heading.

Narrator: Swipe once to the right.

VoiceOver: Done, button.

Narrator: Single finger double tap.

VoiceOver: Call first available volunteer, button.

Narrator: All right, so at this point, if I single finger double tap, I'm getting online, so I'd better have something ready for them to do for this demonstration. I think it's coffee time.

VoiceOver Using the rear camera. Please wait. Finding the first available volunteer.

(ringing sounds)

Narrator: And this is where the be my eyes app. ..

VoiceOver: We are still trying to find an available volunteer.

Narrator: searches for someone that speaks English, someone that's in my time zone. So it searches the world basically, and tries to come up with someone who is best suited for answering my questions. Now this time varies. I've had people pick up in twelve seconds. I've had people pick up in... oh...two minutes. But typically, it's around that thirty second mark. And for privacy reasons, I've changed the voice of the volunteer so it's not detectible.

VoiceOver: Connected.

Volunteer: "Hello." (there was another word there but I couldn't for the life of me make it out.)

Narrator: Hello. Hi, how are you?

Volunteer: I'm all right, how about yourself?

Narrator: I'm all right. I have a question. I have a kurig machine here, this one.

Volunteer: Yep.

Narrator: And when I push this down, it's supposed to give me a choice here for ounces.

Volunteer: The light is hitting in a way I can't read. I think the... ok, that's better. You have... it says it's ten ounce, and there's an arrow at the top and an arrow at the bottom.

Narrator: So down here?

Volunteer: Up a little hire. Right there is where it says ten ounce, yep now it's at eight ounces. You're pushing the down button. How do you want it to be?

Narrator: I want it at eight. Is that it?

Volunteer: Ok.

Narrator: So then the other buttons up here, what are they?

Volunteer: Well, that would be increasing the amount,

Narrator: Ok,

Volunteer: and when you're ready, then you move your finger to the left

Narrator: Ok.

Volunteer: And use this button to make it go, let's see what happens.

(kurig noises)

Volunteer: It's brewing.

Narrator: Well there we go. Thank you very much.

Volunteer: You're very welcome.Have a good day."

Narrator: You too.

VoiceOver: End call, button. Alert. Are you sure you want to disconnect? No. Yes. Yes button.

Narrator: And that was a very nice volunteer. And it wasn't mini mouse, believe me. That voice was changed. And there we go. We got hot cocoa coming. All right, so after the experience is over, this is what we get.

VoiceOver: Review your experience, heading.. Thanks for your call. Please let us know if you had any problems during this call, be it either technical or personal. I experienced problems, button. I had a good call, button.

Narrator: And that's it. that's all there is to this free app. it's be my eyes in app store, and be my eyes on android in the google play store. And in this success story, we bring you Jeff Mihiletch, who has utilized the services of state services for the blind for many years, from elementary school, high school, college, and the work place. Jeff has found success, and is currently employed, and invited us down to his south Minneapolis office to chat with us. So please welcome Jeff Mihiletch. We hope you in joy.

Narrator: Welcome to blind abilities, I'm Jeff Thompson, and I'm downtown south Minneapolis with Jeff Mihiletch, and he is employed and has used state services for the blind before. How are you doing Jeff?

Jeff: Good morning, I'm doing good.

Narrator: Can you tell us a little bit about your job and what you do?

Narrator: I am Jeff Mihiletch. I work in the snap employment and training program, and that is about people that receive food support, snap benefits that they used to call food stamps. If you are an able bodied adult without dependants, it's mandatory now that you be job searching, and my team does the job searching orientation classes and case management for clients that are in that sector of the snap program. I was originally hired for data management, so my job is to look at the referrals every day of new clients coming in, all the different elements, who they are, nationality, when there orientation class is, location and time, and I put it all in a spreadsheet. Then I take that spread sheet, move it into a different spread sheet so it's statistically meant for the entire year, and that's my daily task that I do. I also have broadened my job duties a little bit. My team does orientation class three times a week for new people that are coming onto the snap EMt program. I help out here at the sabathanie center with the Tuesday morning orientation class. So it's a chance for me to get up in front of a group and talk, and move around, helps give my coworkers a little break, because they need to do that orientation class three times a week, and as you can imagine it gets a little repetitive, so they were totally thrilled when I decided to volunteer myself to help out with that orientation class.

Narrator: So Jeff, on a daily basis, what kind of accessible devices or tools do you utilize for your job?

Jeff: I use Jaws extensively. I have a little bit of vision, so I do use zoomtext sometimes, but only for spot reading, if I can't find a formula or something in my excel sheet with jaws. Primarily though, it is Jaws, almost probably ninety five, ninety eight percent of the time.

Narrator: What about in your personal life. Do you use a smart phone with access to it?

Jeff: Yeah, in my personal life I have an iPhone seven. I use VoiceOver, a couple different voices, one for Siri, one for the VoiceOver functionality of it. My work, I have a phone for my work, because the phone that is in everyone's laptops, the soft phone from Sisco, is not screen reader accessible, and so that's a reasonable accommodation, my employer provides me an iPhone for my work. So I feel kind of a little geekish, because I walk around with two phones when I'm at work, my personal phone and my work phone.

Narrator: that's status isn't it?

Jeff: I'm glad that they were able to make that accommodation and provide an iPhone for my work phone calling.

Narrator: Now Jeff, when you applied here, how did you get the job? how did accommodations work for you and what was that process like?

Jeff: The way I found the job was I had a friend of mien who was blind who works for the county, has been with the county for almost thirty years, and he got a phone call from someone, my boss, who was looking to fill a position, a newly created position. My job did not exist before. And she specifically was looking for someone that had a visual disability. And so she reached out to my friend who was blind and worked for the company to find out and assess any barriers that their were, to see how successful he was at doing his job, and to see how many barriers there were, and from there, he told me about the fact that she was looking for someone who was visually impaired to take this new job. I kind of jumped on that band wagon, and followed up with her, and long story short had an interview, and was hired. My job is not a permanent job. It's a two year contract. I'm a limited duration person, and the snap program, the food stamp program is federal funded. So the county writes my check, but salary comes from the feds, from the agricultural program.

Narrator: So Jeff, in your career, education, did you utilize state services for the blind?

Jeff: Yeah, I did. All through my education. Elementary school I had a rehab counselor that used state services for the blind all the way through that, through college went to (spelling) babija university, BS in business administration, and minor in psychology and chemical dependency. And state services for the blind helped me out with tuition and books, and that type of thing.

Narrator: Great. What is transportation like for you, working in south Minneapolis here?

Jeff: In he morning to go into work, I take metro mobility, because it's a relatively direct shot, although sometimes I can get to work in ten minutes, and sometimes two hours, so that's the downside of metro mobility. Going home at night, I do take a city bus. I have to go downtown, and transfer to an express. That's how I do transportation. Not looking forward to winter time, I will say.

Narrator: Great. So Jeff, Being someone that has used state services, who has transferred from high school to college to the work place, what suggestions would you have for someone who is in those shoes today looking towards there future?

Jeff: I would say if you are a braille user, or have the potential to be a braille user, but also use screen readers, I would really highly recommend still doing the braille thing.

Narrator: You said you use Jaws and PC. Now, in the workplace, there's always the debate, you know, should people have a PC or a Mack, and I found out myself that most businesses are Microsoft based, so what would you suggest for someone who's learning technology?

Jeff: The county uses PCs, HP brand. Actually, we just rolled out new laptops and we moved to Microsoft 2010 and office 2016. I mean it all depends on the work environment, but you are correct most of the time that it's PC based.

Narrator: Jeff, do you want to talk about some of your past jobs?

Jeff: Sure. A lot of my job history is kind of broken into clumps. The first is social service, working with developmentally delayed adults, and the second chunk of job history is kind of more customer service type. So the first part, the social service, I kind of fell into that. I moved to Minneapolis after finishing my degree at Bemidji state university, and was really-really desperate for a job, couldn't find one, and it was to the point that I couldn't afford my apartment. I took a job as a live in in a group home for developmentally delayed adults. A good chunk is a little more customer service related, I worked in a large call center for computer hardware dispatch, so I was doing in bound calls with customers and technicians out in the field. Some other jobs I had over the years. I had a really really short gig. I was a very small commodities broker. I found the job through one of the venders that state services for the blind hires. They were looking for someone to do phone work and I was hired and given the job. But the screen reader didn't work at all with their customer management web page that they had. We tried to make it work. After six weeks they let me go, just because it wasn't working out. I also worked for a guy who ran one of the vending stands in saintpaul, and I would fill in for him in the concessions stand while he was out in the field filling vending machines. Did that for a while, and some other kind of odd jobs. I actually at one time was self employed. I went to massage school, became a massage therapist, and tried to do that to make a living. It's a really hard field. It's very seasonal. So that's a little overview of some of my job history.

Narrator: Sounds like you're a real go getter. people feel insecure about going into job interviews and that process. And it can be daunting to someone that hasn't done it before. What's your experience like when you go into a job interview?

Jeff: The interview process itself, I mean, I'm a partial vision, and it's always difficult to know whether to disclose that up front or not. And though there were times in my life when I would disclose that on the phone up front, and then there were other times when I did not. And it's hard to know if disclosing it up front would automatically disqualify me even before I walked in, or if walking in with a white cane and bumping against a desk or a coffee table or something would have disqualified me. It's always a big debate when you're a partial whether or not to disclose it. that was the one nice thing about my current job. My boss is aware of my current disability and I did not have to deal with that disclosure type thing. I had to deal with coworkers a little bit, and that was a challenge. Again, because I'm partial, I can see to navigate a little bit, but you know, I can't figure out who people are until they say something. When you're a partial, it's harder for other people to grasp of what you can and can't see.

Narrator: Jeff, did you ever go through a training center?

Jeff: I did. When I was in seventh grade I did a summer school thing at fairbolt. As an adult I did a couple different stints at VLR, adjustment to blindness training program. The focus for both of those times when I went was Jaws and screen readers. But I also did cooking class, the independent skills, worked in the wood shop, which was a really eye opening experience so to speak. I'd never used a table saw. I'd never used a router, that kind of thing. And it was so cool to actually create something myself out of a chunk of wood and have the skill set to do that. Yeah, I've been to VLR a couple times, they do really good stuff. I highly recommend them. And they were the ones the second time through. They were the ones that got me to Jaws. Because before, I would really try to use zoomtext as much as I could, and it was causing headaches and back strain, because I was leaning forward too much. So the second time I went through, I said, "I really want to get to the point where I can faze out magnification and just do jaws mostly. And so they got me to the point where I could use it exclusively and functionally. Yeah, the adjustment to blindness centers were very helpful.

Narrator: That's vision loss resources on Franklin and Lyndale down in Minneapolis. Well, I want to thank you for coming on to blind abilities and sharing your story, your journey, thank you very much.

Jeff: You are welcome. Hopefully my perspective is useful and helpful for you young people out there, you know, in the path of education and early job searching. Good luck to you, and I wish I would have had this technology when I was going to college. It would have made my college experience much easier, much less stressful, maybe a few less gray hairs.

Narrator: I don't think we can get around the hairs, we can blame it on whatever we want but... well thank you very much Jeff.

Jeff: Thank you very much

Narrator: It was a real pleasure talking to Jeff Mihiletch and learning about his transitional journey from high school to college to the workplace, and his experiences job to job. And you can find out more about state services for the blind and the services they can offer you on the web at https://mn.gov/deed/ssb. And in other states, be sure to contact your state services, and see what services they have for you. And be sure to check the show notes for the American foundation of the blind. They have a link to all the state services in all the states. Stay tuned next month where we bring you episode three of TVI toolbox. And a big thank you goes out to CheeChau for his beautiful music that we use for the podcast. Thank you CheeChau. You can follow Cheechau on Twitter @lcheechau. Thanks for listening, we hope you enjoyed, and until next time, by by.

]]>30:30clean Blind Abilities presents the TVI Toolbox. Where the collaboration between Teachers, Counselors, Parents, Agencies and the Students themselves help enhance the opportunities for success.
1354fullBlind Abilities TeamMichael Feir’s Empowering Guide - Personal Power for the iPhone and A Hero’s Call is Out of SightMichael Feir’s Empowering Guide - Personal Power for the iPhone and A Hero’s Call is Out of SightTue, 30 Jan 2018 13:33:43 +0000Michael Feir’s Empowering Guide - Personal Power for the iPhone and A Hero’s Call is Out of Sight

Michael Feir is an author, a radio personality on the Accessible Media, Inc network in Canada and has quite a passion for accessible games. Michael joins Nick and Jeff of the Blind Abilities Team and talks about a new book that he is releasing by year’s end.

Personal Power for the iPhone is a Guide for those who may not be realizing the potential of the equipment or device they have been provided or may be considering and want to understand how it can be incorporated into their daily life. The guide is aimed at new users and starts from the absolute beginning leaving no one behind.

Michael wants to empower those who may not have the benefit of being around others who are “in the know’ and bring to them a guide that they can enhance their opportunities and gain access to the technology in their hand.

The iPhone is a great accessible tool and Michael Feir wants to let people know just what they have in their iPhone.

Michael has been a backer of a new accessible game from Out of Sight Games called, “A hero’s Call.” Michael talks a bit about the recently released game and how it is a game changer for those interested in accessible games and how gaming can be a tool for gaining necessary skills. He also brings to attention an app that he uses for writing and working on his books. Ulysses is available in the App Store.

]]>Michael Feir’s Empowering Guide - Personal Power for the iPhone and A Hero’s Call is Out of Sight

Michael Feir is an author, a radio personality on the Accessible Media, Inc network in Canada and has quite a passion for accessible games. Michael joins Nick and Jeff of the Blind Abilities Team and talks about a new book that he is releasing by year’s end.

Personal Power for the iPhone is a Guide for those who may not be realizing the potential of the equipment or device they have been provided or may be considering and want to understand how it can be incorporated into their daily life. The guide is aimed at new users and starts from the absolute beginning leaving no one behind.

Michael wants to empower those who may not have the benefit of being around others who are “in the know’ and bring to them a guide that they can enhance their opportunities and gain access to the technology in their hand.

The iPhone is a great accessible tool and Michael Feir wants to let people know just what they have in their iPhone.

Michael has been a backer of a new accessible game from Out of Sight Games called, “A hero’s Call.” Michael talks a bit about the recently released game and how it is a game changer for those interested in accessible games and how gaming can be a tool for gaining necessary skills. He also brings to attention an app that he uses for writing and working on his books. Ulysses is available in the App Store.

]]>33:39noMichael joins Nick and Jeff of the Blind Abilities Team and talks about a new book that he is releasing by year’s end.
Personal Power for the iPhone is a Guide for those who may not be realizing the potential of the equipment or device1353fullFreedom: Aira and InformationThu, 25 Jan 2018 21:39:47 +0000Freedom: Aira and Information

It was a cold and snowy day, and I was out of time. I'd overslept, and today was an important day. Usually, my protocol on Saturday mornings is to pull the covers over my head, keep my door locked, put on some soft music, or a good book, and shun all human contact for as long as possible. Today though was a day I needed to face the world. Today was the day some really amazing poets were coming to my city, and I wouldn't miss it for anything. One problem, I've got no idea how to get to where they're going to be reading their stuff, and I've overslept, so I don't have time to do my usual routine of getting lost for hours on end. More importantly, I don't have the energy to do that. Ordinarily when this happens, I'd take a Lyft, or an Uber, but I just had to buy some expensive textbooks, so that's not an option this month. Luckily, I just got a new tool that cuts my travel time in half, Aira.

Aira is a pair of smart glasses, a portable WIFI hotspot, an iPhone app, and a pair of eyes. You wear the smart glasses, connect them to the hotspot, use the app to place a video call, and get connected to a trained cited agent. They market themselves as a service that gives instant access to information you otherwise might not have, stressing the fact that they are not a replacement for skills, just another tool. The price may be the stumbling block for some, eighty-nine dollars for 100 minutes, with prices and tears going up from there. This price includes the video data, the service, and the equipment. Fortunately, they have a back to school program, giving college students who applied free service on one of the highest tears. Otherwise, as a college student, I could only dream of being an Aira explorer, a person who utilizes any of their plans.

For me, such a service is a life saver. Despite taking a year of training at well renowned Blind, Incorporated, my travel skills are less than desirable. When I started college, I knew I'd get lost and wander in circles. To be on time, I left at seven for nine-forty-five classes, for the first three months. Getting lost takes energy and time, and I'm already an incredibly busy, low energy person. Walking around a space doesn't automatically get it into my head, it just feels like walking. Everything's disconnected, and I don't get the big picture, so just walking and exploring doesn't really work for me. Aira allows me to learn how to get to where I need, write it down, and then actually know what I'm doing so I can get there independently.

Today will be the first time using Aira for going somewhere I've never been before. I'm slightly nervous, but more excited. When I'm ready, I power up the equipment, and step outside my apartment building. The agent I get is professional, and on top of things. As soon as I tell them where I need to go, and that I need to use transit to get there, they begin directing me to the bus station, a station I didn't even know was near my house. The glasses not only let them see what's around me, but allow them to track me via GPS, so they begin giving me turn by turn directions, and pointing out interesting things and obstacles in my path. The agent went silent when I was about to cross a street, but they would also give me the color of the traffic light, which is useful to me. I have a condition called auditory processing disorder, which means that my brain doesn't process what I hear properly. This can get in the way of traffic judgements, and lining up at intersections. Aira can help with both, while ultimately leaving the judgement to me as to what I do with the information they give me. The agent cannot, and should not say, it is safe to cross a street, and I wouldn't want them to. But they can give me the information I need to make, in many cases, a safer, and quicker, crossing. It's a big relief not to stand at the corner for five minutes, missing surges.

The agent’s directions are clear and timely. While maps can handle turn by turn directions, they aren't always accurate, and don't always fully realize where you are. The Aira agent can pinpoint my location on the map, and look at where the stop is in relation to me, so they don't necessarily have to follow the maps directions if they're incorrect. This happened when I was almost to the stop. The map was telling us to turn left and go a few blocks away, but on the map, the agent could see that the stop was right across the street, on the left-hand side. This decreased the time it would have taken to get there.

In a few minutes, I'm standing at the stop, and waiting for the bus, with no walking in circles, and no getting lost. I almost started crying. The feeling of actually competently getting somewhere, without looking like an idiot, was an incredibly powerful thing. In my life, I've never traveled anywhere without being shown, involving someone else I know, or taking hours, so to be able to, for the first time, just get up and go somewhere without planning three hours for getting lost, made me feel incredibly free, and just a little more normal. Though there is no normal, to watch others do something and not be able to do it yourself is a very isolating feeling. It gave me hope for myself, and my future. Getting my emotions together, (a street corner is no place for an epiphany,) I begin thinking about the next steps of this trip.

To get to where I'm going, I'll need to take three busses, because the writers are coming to a cafe in an outer suburb. I hang up the call when I'm on each bus leg to conserve battery and minutes, but I'm lucky. The person I'd gotten the first time had just started their shift, so each time I called back, they were able to retake my call. This made the process extra smooth. On each piece of the journey, I am given smooth, quick, accurate directions based on map directions, and where it looks like I am on the map. I get there in an hour and a half, which is what the GPS predicted. That's something that I've never been able to do the first time going anywhere.

When I get there, the agent offers to read the menu, and I accept. Once this is done, I hang up the call, and have the time of my life. The poetry was amazing, and it was a Saturday well spent. The trip home was equally easy, and I got home in time to get a decent amount of hiding in.

Since then, besides many, many travel instances, I've used Aira for several things including building powerpoints, setting up water fountains, troubleshooting problems with a visual printer screen, figuring out how to use a grandfather clock, inaccessible computer software, and inaccessible PDF's. It really is a tool in my life. Most of the things I use Aira for have required basic skills. When traveling, I needed to know how to get bus information to point them to the most efficient root. I also needed to know how to use a cane, as no one can see everything in front of you except you. When using the computer, I needed to know how to type, how to do limited things with the mouse, and some odd commands. This confirms the fact that Aira is not a skills replacement. Many people I know are afraid that blind people will lean too far on the service and not use the skills they have, or not bother to get skills. However, I disagree with this. Not everyone is the same. No one thinks, feels, or lives life in exactly the same way. So for each person, Aira is a different thing. Because of this, blanket statements like that really don't apply. For example, when I talk to some about my travel, I sometimes get told that I simply need more training, and everything will be fine, or that I'm lazy and need to try harder. When this is said, it doesn't have any context, because they don't know my life, or my head. So of course, that's what they're going to say, because that's what their experiences have lead them to believe. I usually let them go on their way, and continue doing what I need to in order to get where I'm going. Aira, for me, acts as a bridge to fill in the skills I don't have, not for lack of trying. Another person I know likes to use it in order to shop for clothes. In my case, could I ask various people like I usually do, and ping pong from person to person until I get where I'm going? Absolutely. Is it efficient? No. For the clothes shopper, could they flag down a personal shopper, and ask for colors and sizes? Yes. But they prefer to do it on their own, because they feel they have more control over the situation, and don't take up anybody's time. No one can judge another's skills, or lack thereof, simply because they use a service. If it helps someone accomplish something, and makes life easier, it is not anyone's business but the user. Besides that, many tools can be leaned on. I know a blind person who freely admitted to me that they use the cane as an attention getter in order to get people to help them. And even without tools, there are plenty of people in the world who are happy to overhelp, and if people let them, that has nothing to do with skills. To top it off, as stated, most of what Aira can help with has a basis in skills. It is a complimentary tool, that is only as powerful, or competent, as the person using it. It won't magically give someone cane skills, or cooking skills, or anything else. The only thing it gives you, as their tagline says, is information. What a user does with it is completely relative.

I am grateful to Aira for giving me power over my own life, and for having the option for students. The price is a major factor, and a barrier for many. Aira is actively seeking ways to lower the prices, including developing sophisticated AI, and I look forward to what they can do in the future. I hope that this article has given you some context for what this service is, and how it can be used. For me, it overturns my entire life in the best of ways. Whether you already have Aira, are looking into using it, or are perfectly content without it, I hope you have the very happiest of exploring!

It was a cold and snowy day, and I was out of time. I'd overslept, and today was an important day. Usually, my protocol on Saturday mornings is to pull the covers over my head, keep my door locked, put on some soft music, or a good book, and shun all human contact for as long as possible. Today though was a day I needed to face the world. Today was the day some really amazing poets were coming to my city, and I wouldn't miss it for anything. One problem, I've got no idea how to get to where they're going to be reading their stuff, and I've overslept, so I don't have time to do my usual routine of getting lost for hours on end. More importantly, I don't have the energy to do that. Ordinarily when this happens, I'd take a Lyft, or an Uber, but I just had to buy some expensive textbooks, so that's not an option this month. Luckily, I just got a new tool that cuts my travel time in half, Aira.

Aira is a pair of smart glasses, a portable WIFI hotspot, an iPhone app, and a pair of eyes. You wear the smart glasses, connect them to the hotspot, use the app to place a video call, and get connected to a trained cited agent. They market themselves as a service that gives instant access to information you otherwise might not have, stressing the fact that they are not a replacement for skills, just another tool. The price may be the stumbling block for some, eighty-nine dollars for 100 minutes, with prices and tears going up from there. This price includes the video data, the service, and the equipment. Fortunately, they have a back to school program, giving college students who applied free service on one of the highest tears. Otherwise, as a college student, I could only dream of being an Aira explorer, a person who utilizes any of their plans.

For me, such a service is a life saver. Despite taking a year of training at well renowned Blind, Incorporated, my travel skills are less than desirable. When I started college, I knew I'd get lost and wander in circles. To be on time, I left at seven for nine-forty-five classes, for the first three months. Getting lost takes energy and time, and I'm already an incredibly busy, low energy person. Walking around a space doesn't automatically get it into my head, it just feels like walking. Everything's disconnected, and I don't get the big picture, so just walking and exploring doesn't really work for me. Aira allows me to learn how to get to where I need, write it down, and then actually know what I'm doing so I can get there independently.

Today will be the first time using Aira for going somewhere I've never been before. I'm slightly nervous, but more excited. When I'm ready, I power up the equipment, and step outside my apartment building. The agent I get is professional, and on top of things. As soon as I tell them where I need to go, and that I need to use transit to get there, they begin directing me to the bus station, a station I didn't even know was near my house. The glasses not only let them see what's around me, but allow them to track me via GPS, so they begin giving me turn by turn directions, and pointing out interesting things and obstacles in my path. The agent went silent when I was about to cross a street, but they would also give me the color of the traffic light, which is useful to me. I have a condition called auditory processing disorder, which means that my brain doesn't process what I hear properly. This can get in the way of traffic judgements, and lining up at intersections. Aira can help with both, while ultimately leaving the judgement to me as to what I do with the information they give me. The agent cannot, and should not say, it is safe to cross a street, and I wouldn't want them to. But they can give me the information I need to make, in many cases, a safer, and quicker, crossing. It's a big relief not to stand at the corner for five minutes, missing surges.

The agent’s directions are clear and timely. While maps can handle turn by turn directions, they aren't always accurate, and don't always fully realize where you are. The Aira agent can pinpoint my location on the map, and look at where the stop is in relation to me, so they don't necessarily have to follow the maps directions if they're incorrect. This happened when I was almost to the stop. The map was telling us to turn left and go a few blocks away, but on the map, the agent could see that the stop was right across the street, on the left-hand side. This decreased the time it would have taken to get there.

In a few minutes, I'm standing at the stop, and waiting for the bus, with no walking in circles, and no getting lost. I almost started crying. The feeling of actually competently getting somewhere, without looking like an idiot, was an incredibly powerful thing. In my life, I've never traveled anywhere without being shown, involving someone else I know, or taking hours, so to be able to, for the first time, just get up and go somewhere without planning three hours for getting lost, made me feel incredibly free, and just a little more normal. Though there is no normal, to watch others do something and not be able to do it yourself is a very isolating feeling. It gave me hope for myself, and my future. Getting my emotions together, (a street corner is no place for an epiphany,) I begin thinking about the next steps of this trip.

To get to where I'm going, I'll need to take three busses, because the writers are coming to a cafe in an outer suburb. I hang up the call when I'm on each bus leg to conserve battery and minutes, but I'm lucky. The person I'd gotten the first time had just started their shift, so each time I called back, they were able to retake my call. This made the process extra smooth. On each piece of the journey, I am given smooth, quick, accurate directions based on map directions, and where it looks like I am on the map. I get there in an hour and a half, which is what the GPS predicted. That's something that I've never been able to do the first time going anywhere.

When I get there, the agent offers to read the menu, and I accept. Once this is done, I hang up the call, and have the time of my life. The poetry was amazing, and it was a Saturday well spent. The trip home was equally easy, and I got home in time to get a decent amount of hiding in.

Since then, besides many, many travel instances, I've used Aira for several things including building powerpoints, setting up water fountains, troubleshooting problems with a visual printer screen, figuring out how to use a grandfather clock, inaccessible computer software, and inaccessible PDF's. It really is a tool in my life. Most of the things I use Aira for have required basic skills. When traveling, I needed to know how to get bus information to point them to the most efficient root. I also needed to know how to use a cane, as no one can see everything in front of you except you. When using the computer, I needed to know how to type, how to do limited things with the mouse, and some odd commands. This confirms the fact that Aira is not a skills replacement. Many people I know are afraid that blind people will lean too far on the service and not use the skills they have, or not bother to get skills. However, I disagree with this. Not everyone is the same. No one thinks, feels, or lives life in exactly the same way. So for each person, Aira is a different thing. Because of this, blanket statements like that really don't apply. For example, when I talk to some about my travel, I sometimes get told that I simply need more training, and everything will be fine, or that I'm lazy and need to try harder. When this is said, it doesn't have any context, because they don't know my life, or my head. So of course, that's what they're going to say, because that's what their experiences have lead them to believe. I usually let them go on their way, and continue doing what I need to in order to get where I'm going. Aira, for me, acts as a bridge to fill in the skills I don't have, not for lack of trying. Another person I know likes to use it in order to shop for clothes. In my case, could I ask various people like I usually do, and ping pong from person to person until I get where I'm going? Absolutely. Is it efficient? No. For the clothes shopper, could they flag down a personal shopper, and ask for colors and sizes? Yes. But they prefer to do it on their own, because they feel they have more control over the situation, and don't take up anybody's time. No one can judge another's skills, or lack thereof, simply because they use a service. If it helps someone accomplish something, and makes life easier, it is not anyone's business but the user. Besides that, many tools can be leaned on. I know a blind person who freely admitted to me that they use the cane as an attention getter in order to get people to help them. And even without tools, there are plenty of people in the world who are happy to overhelp, and if people let them, that has nothing to do with skills. To top it off, as stated, most of what Aira can help with has a basis in skills. It is a complimentary tool, that is only as powerful, or competent, as the person using it. It won't magically give someone cane skills, or cooking skills, or anything else. The only thing it gives you, as their tagline says, is information. What a user does with it is completely relative.

I am grateful to Aira for giving me power over my own life, and for having the option for students. The price is a major factor, and a barrier for many. Aira is actively seeking ways to lower the prices, including developing sophisticated AI, and I look forward to what they can do in the future. I hope that this article has given you some context for what this service is, and how it can be used. For me, it overturns my entire life in the best of ways. Whether you already have Aira, are looking into using it, or are perfectly content without it, I hope you have the very happiest of exploring!

Success Stories is a series we are producing to show how State Services for the Blind is a vehicle towards success. From job training, researching school’s to attend and gaining the skills and confidence, State Services is there for you. Be sure to contact your State Services for the Blind and see what they can do for you.

Brian powers grew up with the challenges of bullying and being just a bit different. Brian has Albinism and is legally Blind. From his days in K-12 to his journey into the music industry, Brian shares his challenges, his resolve and his passion for music.

Brian has contributed his successful transitions into school, work and setting up his business to the help he received from State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. From providing visual devices, guidance and support Brian has utilized the services provided by State Services at every crossroads along his education and career.

Brian is setting up his new studio in the Uptown section of Minneapolis, Minnesota and by the time you finish listening to his podcast, he will probably be sitting behind his sound board mixing another client’s creation.

Brian plays the Saxophone and has done so for over 32 years. From playing with National bands to the local scene in Minneapolis, Brian’s clients that look him up for recording come from all around the World.

Join Jeff Thompson as he talks to Brian Snowman Powers and hear the beautiful Saxophone music played by Brian. You can find more of Brian’s music on his SoundCloud web site.

Success Stories is a series we are producing to show how State Services for the Blind is a vehicle towards success. From job training, researching school’s to attend and gaining the skills and confidence, State Services is there for you. Be sure to contact your State Services for the Blind and see what they can do for you.

Brian powers grew up with the challenges of bullying and being just a bit different. Brian has Albinism and is legally Blind. From his days in K-12 to his journey into the music industry, Brian shares his challenges, his resolve and his passion for music.

Brian has contributed his successful transitions into school, work and setting up his business to the help he received from State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. From providing visual devices, guidance and support Brian has utilized the services provided by State Services at every crossroads along his education and career.

Brian is setting up his new studio in the Uptown section of Minneapolis, Minnesota and by the time you finish listening to his podcast, he will probably be sitting behind his sound board mixing another client’s creation.

Brian plays the Saxophone and has done so for over 32 years. From playing with National bands to the local scene in Minneapolis, Brian’s clients that look him up for recording come from all around the World.

Join Jeff Thompson as he talks to Brian Snowman Powers and hear the beautiful Saxophone music played by Brian. You can find more of Brian’s music on his SoundCloud web site.

]]>30:57noBrian powers grew up with the challenges of bullying and being just a bit different. Brian has Albinism and is legally Blind. Brian Snowman Powers shares his challenges, his resolve and his passion for music.1352fulliPhone101: A Review of Locking Screen Rotation, Auto Lock and Raise To Wake FeaturesiPhone101: A Review of Locking Screen Rotation, Auto Lock and Raise To Wake FeaturesTue, 23 Jan 2018 18:27:55 +0000iPhone101: A Review of Locking Screen Rotation, Auto Lock and Raise To Wake Features

Blind Abilities presents another episode in our iPhone101 series. As we move past our in depth review of all of the various Voiceover gestures, Pete shares three simple iPhone settings which he ensures are in place whenever he sets up a new iPhone. They are:

* Screen Rotation - located in the iPhone Control Center, this allows us to lock the screen rotation to eliminate the constant, annoying Voiceover message telling us that our phone has switched from Portrait to Landscape, and vice versa.

* Auto Lock - this setting, which is found in Settings, Display and Brightness, controls the time after which your iPhone screen automatically locks after no activity. The time settings start with 30 seconds and go up to five minutes. There is also a “Never” setting which Pete prefers, but be mindful of the potential vulnerability this brings with the security of your phone and its contents.

* Raise to Wake - this setting also resides in Settings, Display and Brightness, allows your iPhone to wake up when you pick it up in your hand. This can be a time-saver, but try it to see if you like it. Some folks feel that it’s an annoyance.

Tune in to this short but informative demonstration and review of these three features, which Pete refers to as “settings of convenience”.

Stay tuned as we continue to move into more advanced iPhone operations in the informative series “iPhone101” from Blind Abilities.

]]>iPhone101: A Review of Locking Screen Rotation, Auto Lock and Raise To Wake Features

Blind Abilities presents another episode in our iPhone101 series. As we move past our in depth review of all of the various Voiceover gestures, Pete shares three simple iPhone settings which he ensures are in place whenever he sets up a new iPhone. They are:

* Screen Rotation - located in the iPhone Control Center, this allows us to lock the screen rotation to eliminate the constant, annoying Voiceover message telling us that our phone has switched from Portrait to Landscape, and vice versa.

* Auto Lock - this setting, which is found in Settings, Display and Brightness, controls the time after which your iPhone screen automatically locks after no activity. The time settings start with 30 seconds and go up to five minutes. There is also a “Never” setting which Pete prefers, but be mindful of the potential vulnerability this brings with the security of your phone and its contents.

* Raise to Wake - this setting also resides in Settings, Display and Brightness, allows your iPhone to wake up when you pick it up in your hand. This can be a time-saver, but try it to see if you like it. Some folks feel that it’s an annoyance.

Tune in to this short but informative demonstration and review of these three features, which Pete refers to as “settings of convenience”.

Stay tuned as we continue to move into more advanced iPhone operations in the informative series “iPhone101” from Blind Abilities.

With some helpful demos and chat about how to improve your Facebook Timeline and experience, to Siri stepping up to the Home Pod expectations, to Smart Glasses getting more and more attention and stepping away from the Mac into PC, yes, Allison is doing it.

Plus, a lot more in this episode 11 of That Blind Tech Show. Join Co-hosts,Allison Hartley Bryan Fischler and Jeff Thompson for some real virtual reality and check out all the That Blind Tech Show by subscribing to Blind Abilities podcast network.

With some helpful demos and chat about how to improve your Facebook Timeline and experience, to Siri stepping up to the Home Pod expectations, to Smart Glasses getting more and more attention and stepping away from the Mac into PC, yes, Allison is doing it.

Plus, a lot more in this episode 11 of That Blind Tech Show. Join Co-hosts,Allison Hartley Bryan Fischler and Jeff Thompson for some real virtual reality and check out all the That Blind Tech Show by subscribing to Blind Abilities podcast network.

]]>57:27noWith some helpful demos and chat about how to improve your Facebook Timeline and experience, to Siri stepping up to the Home Pod expectations, to Smart Glasses getting more and more attention and stepping away from the Mac into PC, yes, Allison is doing it.
1350fullInfo-Tainment News! Apple, Amazon, Specter MeltDown,CES and e Even Google Gets a GiggleInfo-Tainment News! Apple, Amazon, Specter MeltDown,CES and e Even Google Gets a GiggleTue, 16 Jan 2018 20:14:13 +0000

Welcome to the first Blind Abilities Info-Tainment News! Nick, Pete, Lori and Jeff share a look at the latest news and put a humorist twist and reflect about the entirety of the news covered in the light hearted skit we are calling, “Info-Tainment News.”

From the security vulnerabilities, to the virtual assistance populating our homes, to household appliances that are beginning to take commands vocally, they all succumb to the humility we employ upon these new innovations.

We follow up with a commentary from all of us talking about how we approach the ever changing horizon and actually today’s realities of technology. How are you handling the changing techno environment? Are you keeping up with the technology and are you staying safe with security? Are the Gidget and gadgets changing for better independence or is it just differently dependent that is evolving?

Join the BlindAbilities Team on this humorous journey through technology and how it may be affecting us today.

Check out the links below to find out more about the devices and techno news talked about on the Blind Abilities Info-Tainment News.

Could you use a smart assistant in your bathroom? Kohler thinks so. The bathroom giant is connecting everything from your toilet to your shower to the web and allowing you to control them all usingAlexa

Apple says iPhone 6 Plus replacement batteries are in short supply and won't be available until late March to early April in the United States and other regions, according to an internal document distributed to Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers this week and later obtained by MacRumors.

Welcome to the first Blind Abilities Info-Tainment News! Nick, Pete, Lori and Jeff share a look at the latest news and put a humorist twist and reflect about the entirety of the news covered in the light hearted skit we are calling, “Info-Tainment News.”

From the security vulnerabilities, to the virtual assistance populating our homes, to household appliances that are beginning to take commands vocally, they all succumb to the humility we employ upon these new innovations.

We follow up with a commentary from all of us talking about how we approach the ever changing horizon and actually today’s realities of technology. How are you handling the changing techno environment? Are you keeping up with the technology and are you staying safe with security? Are the Gidget and gadgets changing for better independence or is it just differently dependent that is evolving?

Join the BlindAbilities Team on this humorous journey through technology and how it may be affecting us today.

Check out the links below to find out more about the devices and techno news talked about on the Blind Abilities Info-Tainment News.

Could you use a smart assistant in your bathroom? Kohler thinks so. The bathroom giant is connecting everything from your toilet to your shower to the web and allowing you to control them all using Alexa

Apple says iPhone 6 Plus replacement batteries are in short supply and won't be available until late March to early April in the United States and other regions, according to an internal document distributed to Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers this week and later obtained by MacRumors.

]]>14:37noWelcome to Blind Abilities Info-Tainment News! Nick, Pete, Lori and Jeff share a look at the latest news and put a humorist twist and reflect about the entirety of the news covered in the light hearted skit we are calling, “Info-Tainment News.”1349fullPacking Day: What to Jam Where. blog Post by Jessica HodgesTue, 16 Jan 2018 14:06:45 +0000Packing Day: What to Jam Where

My carry-on suitcase is dusty, but happy. With music playing softly in the background, I empty out the remnants of the last time I'd been traveling, the few stray toiletries that I didn't need, the necklace that had fallen out of its gift box, the random bits of paper...god knows where those came from. Then, I wipe out all the compartments, and outsides. It had been sitting under my bed for several months, after all. Once that is finished, I begin packing.

Finding it cumbersome, I usually don't bother checking a suitcase, since I can often get all that I need into one carry-on. I tend to begin with clothes, simply because they take up the most space, and that's what I've got to pack the most of. I start by looking at the weather. Where I'm going, it's going to be wet, and cold, but not so cold that I should need snow things. This is what I'm going to base my packing on.

Reaching into my closet, I find the rain boots I rarely ever use, and plop them at the bottom, arranging them so that one is nested into the curve of the other. This makes them flat, and though it means they cover a bit more of the bottom, it’s easier to pack over a lot of semi flat things than a big bulge. Then, I get out my multipurpose, black flats, and set them at the foot of my bed. Coats go in next. My good, thick one goes on top of my flats, a medium sweater gets folded and placed into the bag. Next, I rifle my closet. I just pulled all my laundry out of the machine, so I know all my clothes are at my disposal.

Setting aside a comfortable, long black dress on top of the pile for flying in, I begin looking at the rest of my stuff. Whenever I go anywhere, I like to bring some casual clothes, some comfortable things that can be dressed up or down, and one really, really nice outfit. For me, that means two sweater dresses, a pretty velvet black dress, sweat pants and a soft top, two pairs of pajamas, a skirt and blouse, a couple extra non-de script plain pairs of pants, and three sets of leggings.

I count out, and slide under things and socks into a side compartment, along with a plastic bag for dirty laundry. I fold all the clothing items, and put half of them in the bag. Then, I go to the kitchen and get the two loaves of bread I baked to give to a family member. They've been wrapped with a few layers of tinfoil, and stood upright into a sturdy Tupperware, taped closed about six different ways. This gets nested in the middle of my clothes. I shape the other clothes into an indent around it, then put the remaining clothes on top, pressing them in around the sides.

Next, a bluetooth keyboard gets propped down the side of the suitcase. For my board, the suitcase cradles it nicely, preventing it from sliding or taking up horizontal space in the bag. On top of everything, I set my braille note taker, nestling it into one corner of my bag, keeping some extra room for stuff I decide to grab when I leave tomorrow morning.

That done, I turn to the bathroom. Taking the reusable travel bottles that I got last Christmas from there hiding place under the sink, I carefully fill a bottle with shampoo. Then, I find the travel sized containers of both my leave in conditioner, and my lotion that I bought specifically for this trip. Grabbing the bar of soap from the shower, I drop the whole mess into a zip lock. Taking the small toothpaste and toothbrush from my counter where I'd already set them the night before, I go back to the bedroom, and zip everything into an outside pocket. Now, except for my laptop, my carry on is done, and I usually don't add that until just before I leave. So, it's time to pack my purse.

My purse is very different from my carry on. It contains things that I want with me at all times. I wish that I had room for my bread in it, but it's far too small, so clothes will have to do what they can. Into the front card slot of my purse, I slip my passport card, so that it's easy to get to, and not in danger of falling out. Next, I put 2 extra iPhone cables, 2 bricks, a backup battery, and 2 micro USB chords. Then, I put a pair of wired earbuds in. My apartment keys go into a front pocket, alongside a small zip lock of snack mix. when I leave, I'll put my phone in the back pocket, closest to me and easy to get to. In the back of my phone case, I insure I have my debit and credit cards, my student ID, and my new bus pass. Last, I top my purse off with a small bag of worry stones, a personal habit of mine.

Practically every bag I have has a few soft, smooth, interestingly shaped stones. They can serve as ways to remind me of what, and who I am, can act as inspiration for stories, or just things to fiddle with if I'm bored. I don't end up using them often, but when I do, they're usually helpful in unexpected ways.

Last, I unzip my carry on, and add my laptop and its charger, right on top so that I can easily remove it for security. As an afterthought, I add a USB stick and SD card to another front compartment, then give the whole mess a pat.

Now it's time for the last steps. I make sure to plug in my phone, and my bluetooth headset, both of which will be essential to the trip. Then, I take care of all the airport business, and start to double check that I've gotten everything. I usually forget pajamas, tooth paste, and socks. Thankfully, I've got all these things that time, but I forgot my hairbrush, and extra hair ties. I add these to the compartment with the toiletries.

In the very front, I slip in a tile. A tile is a bluetooth tracker that lets you activate the device with an app, telling it to play a sound. It also allows you to track its location. On the off chance either my suitcase ends up in checked bags after all, or someone makes off with it, Tile allows me to find my suitcase independently, or report its last seen location to the police. I've never had to do that latter, but the former is a scenario I've experienced often.

I then make sure my fridge is empty of all things that are mine. Finding a few things I know I won't be able to eat in time, I knock on a few apartment doors next to mine. Finding no takers, I throw the food away. It was only a head of lettuce, a few garlic cloves, and some lasagna that was already about to go bad.

Returning to my apartment, I make sure that I put the keys back in their places, everything's plugged in, the fridge is empty, and the house is clean. I find some grime in the bathroom and on my desk, and take care of it. then, I put on some ambient sounds, and go to sleep, glad that my feet won't be leaving the ground until tomorrow and hoping I haven't already forgotten something. This thought makes me wake up a little, and I know I won’t be able to sleep until I’ve made sure everything’s accounted for. Sleepily, I set a reminder to go off tomorrow morning, reminding me to take one more check of my house. Then, with packing day ending and everything jammed where it belongs, I pass out.

My carry-on suitcase is dusty, but happy. With music playing softly in the background, I empty out the remnants of the last time I'd been traveling, the few stray toiletries that I didn't need, the necklace that had fallen out of its gift box, the random bits of paper...god knows where those came from. Then, I wipe out all the compartments, and outsides. It had been sitting under my bed for several months, after all. Once that is finished, I begin packing.

Finding it cumbersome, I usually don't bother checking a suitcase, since I can often get all that I need into one carry-on. I tend to begin with clothes, simply because they take up the most space, and that's what I've got to pack the most of. I start by looking at the weather. Where I'm going, it's going to be wet, and cold, but not so cold that I should need snow things. This is what I'm going to base my packing on.

Reaching into my closet, I find the rain boots I rarely ever use, and plop them at the bottom, arranging them so that one is nested into the curve of the other. This makes them flat, and though it means they cover a bit more of the bottom, it’s easier to pack over a lot of semi flat things than a big bulge. Then, I get out my multipurpose, black flats, and set them at the foot of my bed. Coats go in next. My good, thick one goes on top of my flats, a medium sweater gets folded and placed into the bag. Next, I rifle my closet. I just pulled all my laundry out of the machine, so I know all my clothes are at my disposal.

Setting aside a comfortable, long black dress on top of the pile for flying in, I begin looking at the rest of my stuff. Whenever I go anywhere, I like to bring some casual clothes, some comfortable things that can be dressed up or down, and one really, really nice outfit. For me, that means two sweater dresses, a pretty velvet black dress, sweat pants and a soft top, two pairs of pajamas, a skirt and blouse, a couple extra non-de script plain pairs of pants, and three sets of leggings.

I count out, and slide under things and socks into a side compartment, along with a plastic bag for dirty laundry. I fold all the clothing items, and put half of them in the bag. Then, I go to the kitchen and get the two loaves of bread I baked to give to a family member. They've been wrapped with a few layers of tinfoil, and stood upright into a sturdy Tupperware, taped closed about six different ways. This gets nested in the middle of my clothes. I shape the other clothes into an indent around it, then put the remaining clothes on top, pressing them in around the sides.

Next, a bluetooth keyboard gets propped down the side of the suitcase. For my board, the suitcase cradles it nicely, preventing it from sliding or taking up horizontal space in the bag. On top of everything, I set my braille note taker, nestling it into one corner of my bag, keeping some extra room for stuff I decide to grab when I leave tomorrow morning.

That done, I turn to the bathroom. Taking the reusable travel bottles that I got last Christmas from there hiding place under the sink, I carefully fill a bottle with shampoo. Then, I find the travel sized containers of both my leave in conditioner, and my lotion that I bought specifically for this trip. Grabbing the bar of soap from the shower, I drop the whole mess into a zip lock. Taking the small toothpaste and toothbrush from my counter where I'd already set them the night before, I go back to the bedroom, and zip everything into an outside pocket. Now, except for my laptop, my carry on is done, and I usually don't add that until just before I leave. So, it's time to pack my purse.

My purse is very different from my carry on. It contains things that I want with me at all times. I wish that I had room for my bread in it, but it's far too small, so clothes will have to do what they can. Into the front card slot of my purse, I slip my passport card, so that it's easy to get to, and not in danger of falling out. Next, I put 2 extra iPhone cables, 2 bricks, a backup battery, and 2 micro USB chords. Then, I put a pair of wired earbuds in. My apartment keys go into a front pocket, alongside a small zip lock of snack mix. when I leave, I'll put my phone in the back pocket, closest to me and easy to get to. In the back of my phone case, I insure I have my debit and credit cards, my student ID, and my new bus pass. Last, I top my purse off with a small bag of worry stones, a personal habit of mine.

Practically every bag I have has a few soft, smooth, interestingly shaped stones. They can serve as ways to remind me of what, and who I am, can act as inspiration for stories, or just things to fiddle with if I'm bored. I don't end up using them often, but when I do, they're usually helpful in unexpected ways.

Last, I unzip my carry on, and add my laptop and its charger, right on top so that I can easily remove it for security. As an afterthought, I add a USB stick and SD card to another front compartment, then give the whole mess a pat.

Now it's time for the last steps. I make sure to plug in my phone, and my bluetooth headset, both of which will be essential to the trip. Then, I take care of all the airport business, and start to double check that I've gotten everything. I usually forget pajamas, tooth paste, and socks. Thankfully, I've got all these things that time, but I forgot my hairbrush, and extra hair ties. I add these to the compartment with the toiletries.

In the very front, I slip in a tile. A tile is a bluetooth tracker that lets you activate the device with an app, telling it to play a sound. It also allows you to track its location. On the off chance either my suitcase ends up in checked bags after all, or someone makes off with it, Tile allows me to find my suitcase independently, or report its last seen location to the police. I've never had to do that latter, but the former is a scenario I've experienced often.

I then make sure my fridge is empty of all things that are mine. Finding a few things I know I won't be able to eat in time, I knock on a few apartment doors next to mine. Finding no takers, I throw the food away. It was only a head of lettuce, a few garlic cloves, and some lasagna that was already about to go bad.

Returning to my apartment, I make sure that I put the keys back in their places, everything's plugged in, the fridge is empty, and the house is clean. I find some grime in the bathroom and on my desk, and take care of it. then, I put on some ambient sounds, and go to sleep, glad that my feet won't be leaving the ground until tomorrow and hoping I haven't already forgotten something. This thought makes me wake up a little, and I know I won’t be able to sleep until I’ve made sure everything’s accounted for. Sleepily, I set a reminder to go off tomorrow morning, reminding me to take one more check of my house. Then, with packing day ending and everything jammed where it belongs, I pass out.

Blind Abilities presents another episode in the iPhone101 series, with this wind-up of Voiceover gestures. Pete walks us through some miscellaneous VO gestures not covered in the previous episodes, including the 4-finger double-tap (to open VO help); the split-tap (another variation of the single-finger double-tap); the 2-finger double-tap (to label buttons or photos), and the single-finger flick up or down (to select values in pickers such as in Do Not Disturb, the alarm or the Rotor). This concludes the review of Voiceover gestures, but certainly not the iPhone101 series. Pete, Jeff and Nick will be back with more tips and tricks for mastering your i-Device, so stay tuned!

Blind Abilities presents another episode in the iPhone101 series, with this wind-up of Voiceover gestures. Pete walks us through some miscellaneous VO gestures not covered in the previous episodes, including the 4-finger double-tap (to open VO help); the split-tap (another variation of the single-finger double-tap); the 2-finger double-tap (to label buttons or photos), and the single-finger flick up or down (to select values in pickers such as in Do Not Disturb, the alarm or the Rotor). This concludes the review of Voiceover gestures, but certainly not the iPhone101 series. Pete, Jeff and Nick will be back with more tips and tricks for mastering your i-Device, so stay tuned!

]]>12:04noBlind Abilities presents another episode in the iPhone101 series, with this wind-up of Voiceover gestures. Pete walks us through some miscellaneous VO gestures not covered in the previous episodes, 1348fullKeep Your Money! Tips on Saving While You Shop By Lucie (Blog post)Sun, 07 Jan 2018 20:38:11 +0000Keep Your Money

Tips on Saving While You Shop

By Lucie

One thing I enjoy is saving money on necessary items. I am excited that this has become much easier with technology. I use a bunch of different apps and websites when I create my shopping list. I have compiled a few tips below to help you on the journey of keeping all that cash.

A few quick tips to begin:

Create a list. Know before going shopping what you will need and try and stick to it. If you go without a plan, items have a way of getting in your cart that may break the bank.

Check your cupboards and fridge before creating the list. Know what you have on hand and create meals around those items.

Get to know your stores sales. Many stores have cycles of sale items. Your store may have chicken on sale every 3rd week of the month. If a good sale hits on products you like, note when they are on sale and see if you can detect a cycle.

Know what is in season. Produce is most affordable during particular times throughout the year. It will help you get in all that goodness without costing a fortune.

Use reward programs or credit card offers. Note: if using the credit card option, pay the balance off immediately. So use the card for the amount you would of spent using your debit card, and pay it off when you get home. The Red Card through Target offers a 5% discount on purchases. If you intended on spending $100 on groceries, it would save you $5. However, interest will do you in if you do not pay it immediately.

Do not try to be a brand loyalist. If you are open to a few different brands, it will open up your possibilities for saving. If you have three different brands of laundry soap you are willing to use, it will maximize your savings. I know though that sometimes there is no decent alternative. In those cases see if you can determine when that brand is on sale.

Ask cashier for coupons. Many stores do not allow employees to suggest sales or coupons, however if you ask, they can help. JC Penney is one example of this. They often have coupons at the checkout. Just ask them! Sometimes you may have to tell them what coupon it is that they are offering, but it is so worth it.

Check the size. Bulk items often get the reputation of being cheaper. However, that may not always be true. Smaller sizes on sale, and in combination with a coupon, may be much cheaper.

Does your store have an app? Many stores now are offering an app that allows you to clip coupons and get rewards. You can also view the weekly ad and price compare. This has been wonderful for an accessible way of shopping and saving money.

When is it the right time to buy? Purchasing some products at particular times during the year will save you a ton. For example, school supplies are cheapest in the summer, and may cost a fortune later on.

One thing I enjoy is saving money on necessary items. I am excited that this has become much easier with technology. I use a bunch of different apps and websites when I create my shopping list. I have compiled a few tips below to help you on the journey of keeping all that cash.

A few quick tips to begin:

Create a list. Know before going shopping what you will need and try and stick to it. If you go without a plan, items have a way of getting in your cart that may break the bank.

Check your cupboards and fridge before creating the list. Know what you have on hand and create meals around those items.

Get to know your stores sales. Many stores have cycles of sale items. Your store may have chicken on sale every 3rd week of the month. If a good sale hits on products you like, note when they are on sale and see if you can detect a cycle.

Know what is in season. Produce is most affordable during particular times throughout the year. It will help you get in all that goodness without costing a fortune.

Use reward programs or credit card offers. Note: if using the credit card option, pay the balance off immediately. So use the card for the amount you would of spent using your debit card, and pay it off when you get home. The Red Card through Target offers a 5% discount on purchases. If you intended on spending $100 on groceries, it would save you $5. However, interest will do you in if you do not pay it immediately.

Do not try to be a brand loyalist. If you are open to a few different brands, it will open up your possibilities for saving. If you have three different brands of laundry soap you are willing to use, it will maximize your savings. I know though that sometimes there is no decent alternative. In those cases see if you can determine when that brand is on sale.

Ask cashier for coupons. Many stores do not allow employees to suggest sales or coupons, however if you ask, they can help. JC Penney is one example of this. They often have coupons at the checkout. Just ask them! Sometimes you may have to tell them what coupon it is that they are offering, but it is so worth it.

Check the size. Bulk items often get the reputation of being cheaper. However, that may not always be true. Smaller sizes on sale, and in combination with a coupon, may be much cheaper.

Does your store have an app? Many stores now are offering an app that allows you to clip coupons and get rewards. You can also view the weekly ad and price compare. This has been wonderful for an accessible way of shopping and saving money.

When is it the right time to buy? Purchasing some products at particular times during the year will save you a ton. For example, school supplies are cheapest in the summer, and may cost a fortune later on.

]]>Unlocking the Powers of SeeingAI and Exploring the Preview ChannelsUnlocking the Powers of SeeingAI and Exploring the Preview ChannelsThu, 04 Jan 2018 02:27:52 +0000Unlocking the Powers of SeeingAI and Exploring the Preview Channels

We’ve done some coverage on the Swiss Army Knife of Apps, SeeingAI and brushed up a bit here and there. We look at the Product Channel and hear from listeners about reading bar codes. We walk through the 3D Touch shortcut setup, hear an attempt of making music with the Light Detection channel and sort out a currency matter in no time at all.

We test out the Hand Writing Channel and the results are shockingly impressive. The Color Preview is interesting and actually, all the Preview Channels are Betas so we encourage all of you to send feedback to the Microsoft Team via the link in the settings called Feedback.

With all the channels and choices this one app brings to the iPhone, the SeeingAI app has moved many of icons off the front page and some off the iPhone completely. However, most feel that SeeingAI does a good job and the Short Text channel rocks, SeeingAI has a ways to go before the robust apps will be asked to leave town.

Join Jeff Thompson from the blind Abilities Team and some friends as they talk SeeingAi and bounce around the channels.

]]>Unlocking the Powers of SeeingAI and Exploring the Preview Channels

We’ve done some coverage on the Swiss Army Knife of Apps, SeeingAI and brushed up a bit here and there. We look at the Product Channel and hear from listeners about reading bar codes. We walk through the 3D Touch shortcut setup, hear an attempt of making music with the Light Detection channel and sort out a currency matter in no time at all.

We test out the Hand Writing Channel and the results are shockingly impressive. The Color Preview is interesting and actually, all the Preview Channels are Betas so we encourage all of you to send feedback to the Microsoft Team via the link in the settings called Feedback.

With all the channels and choices this one app brings to the iPhone, the SeeingAI app has moved many of icons off the front page and some off the iPhone completely. However, most feel that SeeingAI does a good job and the Short Text channel rocks, SeeingAI has a ways to go before the robust apps will be asked to leave town.

Join Jeff Thompson from the blind Abilities Team and some friends as they talk SeeingAi and bounce around the channels.

]]>18:14noWe’ve done some coverage on the Swiss Army Knife of Apps, SeeingAI and brushed up a bit here and there. We look at the Product Channel and hear from listeners about reading bar codes. Actually, we cover the entire channel lin-up.1347fullAira Welcomes Memphis International Airport As The First to Join the New Site Access Airport ProgramAira Welcomes Memphis International Airport As The First to Join the New Site Access Airport ProgramWed, 03 Jan 2018 16:18:41 +0000Aira Welcomes Memphis International Airport As The First to Join the New Site Access Airport Program

Aira presents this interview with Scott Brockman, CEO and President of the Memphis International Airport. Scott has brought his airport into a new Site Access Airport Program in which Aira Explorers will enjoy free minutes while connected to their Aira Agent. Join Pete and Scott as they discuss the workings of the program and Memphis Airport’s genuine commitment to customer service and accessibility. Learn how this new program works and how you can contact your local airport to encourage them to join the Aira Site Access Network as well. Since Pete chatted with Scott, the Minneapolis International Airport has joined as the second airport to enlist in the program.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>Aira Welcomes Memphis International Airport As The First to Join the New Site Access Airport Program

Aira presents this interview with Scott Brockman, CEO and President of the Memphis International Airport. Scott has brought his airport into a new Site Access Airport Program in which Aira Explorers will enjoy free minutes while connected to their Aira Agent. Join Pete and Scott as they discuss the workings of the program and Memphis Airport’s genuine commitment to customer service and accessibility. Learn how this new program works and how you can contact your local airport to encourage them to join the Aira Site Access Network as well. Since Pete chatted with Scott, the Minneapolis International Airport has joined as the second airport to enlist in the program.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>17:57noAira presents this interview with Scott Brockman, CEO and President of the Memphis International Airport. Scott has brought his airport into a new Site Access Airport Program in which Aira Explorers will enjoy free minutes 1346fullEuroFly Demonstration By Daniel Brown. Buckle Up Folks, I've Seen Him Fly! Free Firmware Flight SimulatorEuroFly Demonstration By Daniel Brown. Buckle Up Folks, I've Seen Him Fly! Free Firmware Flight SimulatorTue, 02 Jan 2018 19:13:48 +0000EuroFly Demonstration By Daniel Brown. Buckle Up Folks, I've Seen Him Fly!

Blind Abilities welcomes Daniel Brown and his demonstration of EuroFly, a flight simulator for the PC. Daniel takes us to the gate, loads the passengers and heads off into the big blue skies flying this Category 2 airliner. Actually, the skies are not blue but thunder and lightning fills the audio as this audio only simulator brings us all the sounds and action with Daniel at the helm. Umm, Buckle up folks, you are in for a ride.

Here is a little something from the Euro Fly Web site where you can get more information about EuroFly and download the flight simulator program today!

Eurofly is a complex flight simulator and digital atlas for the blind. It is based on a real GPS system, and contains a large map of the world.

Have you ever wanted to see what is under GPS coordinates which you found on the internet, or have thought yourself? Enter your home city and look what is ten km to the North, south, west, east or in specific angle? Or have you ever wanted to be a pilot of an aircraft and take passengers from one country to another? Or fly only for fun, by choosing from our collection of planes including small airplanes as well as big aircraft. Flying for hundreds of passengers with real parameters as can be seen on airports? If yes, this is a right solution for you!

]]>EuroFly Demonstration By Daniel Brown. Buckle Up Folks, I've Seen Him Fly!

Blind Abilities welcomes Daniel Brown and his demonstration of EuroFly, a flight simulator for the PC. Daniel takes us to the gate, loads the passengers and heads off into the big blue skies flying this Category 2 airliner. Actually, the skies are not blue but thunder and lightning fills the audio as this audio only simulator brings us all the sounds and action with Daniel at the helm. Umm, Buckle up folks, you are in for a ride.

Here is a little something from the Euro Fly Web site where you can get more information about EuroFly and download the flight simulator program today!

Eurofly is a complex flight simulator and digital atlas for the blind. It is based on a real GPS system, and contains a large map of the world.

Have you ever wanted to see what is under GPS coordinates which you found on the internet, or have thought yourself? Enter your home city and look what is ten km to the North, south, west, east or in specific angle? Or have you ever wanted to be a pilot of an aircraft and take passengers from one country to another? Or fly only for fun, by choosing from our collection of planes including small airplanes as well as big aircraft. Flying for hundreds of passengers with real parameters as can be seen on airports? If yes, this is a right solution for you!

]]>27:20noBlind Abilities welcomes Daniel Brown and his demonstration of EuroFly, a flight simulator for the PC. Daniel takes us to the gate, loads the passengers and heads off into the big blue skies flying this Category 2 airliner. 1345fullInclusion In STEM Programs and Maker Spaces Keeps Physics Major Jamie Principato Soaring High in ColoradoInclusion In STEM Programs and Maker Spaces Keeps Physics Major Jamie Principato Soaring High in ColoradoSun, 31 Dec 2017 18:56:13 +0000Inclusion In STEM Programs and Maker Spaces Keeps Physics Major Jamie Principato Soaring High in Colorado

STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. With the inclusion of Arts one has STEAM and one can find classes and programs for each on-line by a Google Search.

Colorado University offers summer discovery camps and is inclusive to children with disabilities, not to exclude other opportunities, and our guest Jamie Principato will be teaching at CU Science Discovery Summer Camp.

Jamie Principato joins Blind Abilities over a Skype conversation to talk about what has been going on since she last joined us in the late spring of 2017. Jamie’s STEM curriculum was a great success at the Colorado Center for the Blind Summer Program. Jamie is in her senior year as a Physics Major, yet, has also began teaching at the very same university, taking on the challenges of transitioning from student to teacher in the same day.

Jamie talks about STEM programs and how inclusiveness brings about more learning opportunities and Maker Spaces popping up around the states. Jamie’s hobby is science and is working on making it her career every day.

Join Jamie as she talks about her passion for science and how you can get started right now if you have that science discovery bug in you.

]]>Inclusion In STEM Programs and Maker Spaces Keeps Physics Major Jamie Principato Soaring High in Colorado

STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. With the inclusion of Arts one has STEAM and one can find classes and programs for each on-line by a Google Search.

Colorado University offers summer discovery camps and is inclusive to children with disabilities, not to exclude other opportunities, and our guest Jamie Principato will be teaching at CU Science Discovery Summer Camp.

Jamie Principato joins Blind Abilities over a Skype conversation to talk about what has been going on since she last joined us in the late spring of 2017. Jamie’s STEM curriculum was a great success at the Colorado Center for the Blind Summer Program. Jamie is in her senior year as a Physics Major, yet, has also began teaching at the very same university, taking on the challenges of transitioning from student to teacher in the same day.

Jamie talks about STEM programs and how inclusiveness brings about more learning opportunities and Maker Spaces popping up around the states. Jamie’s hobby is science and is working on making it her career every day.

Join Jamie as she talks about her passion for science and how you can get started right now if you have that science discovery bug in you.

]]>28:34noJamie Principato joins Blind Abilities over a Skype conversation to talk about what has been going on since she last joined us in the late spring of 2017. Jamie’s STEM curriculum was a great success at the Colorado Center for the Blind 1344fullThat Blind Tech Show #10: SeeingAI Update, Echo Wakes Up Singing, Pay the Apple Pay Way, A hero’s Call and Bryan’s Continuing Resolute to the New Year.That Blind Tech Show #10: SeeingAI Update, Echo Wakes Up Singing, Pay the Apple Pay Way, A hero’s Call and Bryan’s Continuing Resolute to the New Year.Sat, 23 Dec 2017 23:17:14 +0000That Blind Tech Show #10: SeeingAI Update, Echo Wakes Up Singing, Pay the Apple Pay Way, A hero’s Call and Bryan’s Continuing Resolute to the New Year.

That Blind Tech Show Ep. 10 brings a vast array of topics and information from the Apple Watch experience, to the Talking Amazon TV, Amazon Echo waking you up in song or your favorite station, Turning off the Echo dot microphone, and a bit about using the app or the #FB SelectiveTwweets App in Facebook to post in both in one step.

Bryan talks about the Air Pods and setting the volume on his new Apple watch.

Allison talks about a new game coming out for the PC called A Hero’s Call from Out Of Sight Games.

We sail through this episode covering more gidgets, gadgets and news stuff that you better wear a life jacket, or, knee high boots if you’re going to wade through all this. :)

Check out the links below to some of the topics mentioned in Episode 10 of That Blind Tech show.

That Blind Tech Show Ep. 10 brings a vast array of topics and information from the Apple Watch experience, to the Talking Amazon TV, Amazon Echo waking you up in song or your favorite station, Turning off the Echo dot microphone, and a bit about using the app or the #FB SelectiveTwweets App in Facebook to post in both in one step.

Bryan talks about the Air Pods and setting the volume on his new Apple watch.

Allison talks about a new game coming out for the PC called A Hero’s Call from Out Of Sight Games.

We sail through this episode covering more gidgets, gadgets and news stuff that you better wear a life jacket, or, knee high boots if you’re going to wade through all this. :)

Check out the links below to some of the topics mentioned in Episode 10 of That Blind Tech show.

Blind Abilities presents the TVI Toolbox. Where the collaboration between Teachers, Counselors, Parents, Agencies and the Students themselves help enhance the opportunities for success.

Transitioning from high school to college and the workplace is a major step and the beginning of lifetime goals and aspirations. As Wesley Sissen, the featured Transition Student in the Success Stories portion of this podcast, puts it very well, “No one has to do it alone.” From the TVI’s to the Agency counselor’s and program specialist, working together along with parents as well, is creating more opportunities and successes for Transition age students.

Sharing experiences through Success Stories, sharing programs that make a positive impact, sharing ideas, findings, upcoming events and the Tools for Success all play a part in making the transition process a natural progression and better understood by all.

In this introductory episode we illustrate the collaboration between TVI’s and State Services for the Blind personnel. In the Tools for Success the FreeIOS Seeing AI app is given an overview. This Swiss Army Knife of an app does OCR, Product Identification, Color detection, light detection and even Hand Writing detection. Microsoft’s accessibility team has done wonders with this new app for the iPhone making it a personal favorite for many in the blindness community.

On The Horizon is a bulletin space for upcoming events, information and resources submitted by listeners and our staff. You can submit to On the Horizon by emailing jessica Hodges.

The Success Stories feature an experience of a Transition Student, whether they are attending college, preparing for college or are now employed, the Success Stories brings a positive and a sharing of the experience of transitioning from high school to college and the work place.

The Parent Child Institute(PCI) is open to all Minnesota families with children, birth to 6, who are Blind or Visually Impaired and/or deaf/blind (including children with additional disabilities). Topics will include: advocating for your child, music therapy, pre-braille literacy, Orientation Mobility, sensory needs, and being an active member of the IFSP/IEP process...

Seeing AI is a free app that narrates the world around you. Designed for the blind and low vision community, this ongoing research project harnesses the power of AI to open up the visual world and describe nearby people, text and objects.

Optimized for use with VoiceOver, the app enables you to recognize:

• Short Text - Speaks text as soon as it appears in front of the camera.

• Documents - Provides audio guidance to capture a printed page, and recognizes the text, along with its original formatting.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

Blind Abilities presents the TVI Toolbox. Where the collaboration between Teachers, Counselors, Parents, Agencies and the Students themselves help enhance the opportunities for success.

Transitioning from high school to college and the workplace is a major step and the beginning of lifetime goals and aspirations. As Wesley Sissen, the featured Transition Student in the Success Stories portion of this podcast, puts it very well, “No one has to do it alone.” From the TVI’s to the Agency counselor’s and program specialist, working together along with parents as well, is creating more opportunities and successes for Transition age students.

Sharing experiences through Success Stories, sharing programs that make a positive impact, sharing ideas, findings, upcoming events and the Tools for Success all play a part in making the transition process a natural progression and better understood by all.

In this introductory episode we illustrate the collaboration between TVI’s and State Services for the Blind personnel. In the Tools for Success the FreeIOS Seeing AI app is given an overview. This Swiss Army Knife of an app does OCR, Product Identification, Color detection, light detection and even Hand Writing detection. Microsoft’s accessibility team has done wonders with this new app for the iPhone making it a personal favorite for many in the blindness community.

On The Horizon is a bulletin space for upcoming events, information and resources submitted by listeners and our staff. You can submit to On the Horizon by emailing jessica Hodges.

The Success Stories feature an experience of a Transition Student, whether they are attending college, preparing for college or are now employed, the Success Stories brings a positive and a sharing of the experience of transitioning from high school to college and the work place.

The Parent Child Institute(PCI) is open to all Minnesota families with children, birth to 6, who are Blind or Visually Impaired and/or deaf/blind (including children with additional disabilities). Topics will include: advocating for your child, music therapy, pre-braille literacy, Orientation Mobility, sensory needs, and being an active member of the IFSP/IEP process...

Seeing AI is a free app that narrates the world around you. Designed for the blind and low vision community, this ongoing research project harnesses the power of AI to open up the visual world and describe nearby people, text and objects.

Optimized for use with VoiceOver, the app enables you to recognize:

• Short Text - Speaks text as soon as it appears in front of the camera.

• Documents - Provides audio guidance to capture a printed page, and recognizes the text, along with its original formatting.

We offer tools and training for employment and for helping seniors remain independent and active. As Minnesota’s accessible reading source we also transcribe books and other materials into alternative formats, including audio and braille. We assist Minnesotans who are blind, DeafBlind, losing vision, or who have another disability that makes it difficult to read print.

If you’d like to apply for services, learn more, or have more questions, just give us a call. You’ll find contact information for all of our offices on our contact page, or you can call our main office at 651-539-2300.

]]>20:39noBlind Abilities presents the TVI Toolbox. Where the collaboration between Teachers, Counselors, Parents, Agencies and the Students themselves help enhance the opportunities for success.
1342fullFrom Grocery Store to Fridge: Managing Grocery Shopping Through Someone Else’s Hands and the InstaCart AppTue, 19 Dec 2017 15:57:23 +0000From Grocery Store to Fridge: Managing Grocery Shopping Through Someone Else’s Hands and the InstaCart App

By Jessica Hodges

"You do...what on a regular basis?"

My friend's voice practically lacerates my eardrums as she rockets up six octaves. Startled and trying not to either freeze or curse her out, I drop the phone, then do curse as I lose it in the mess of my unmade bed. Her voice is still nattering on, and my phone has conveniently switched to speaker phone. I decide it's time to try and cut her off.

"Yes, I use InstaCart, a grocery delivery service controlled by app. That means I trust some random stranger to get the groceries I want. I trust a delivery person to know where I live. And yes, that means I also let them in if I have more groceries than I can carry, (which I usually do,) and if they offer to help me, (which they usually do.)"

"But why? You don’t know if they followed your instructions. Your food could get mixed with someone else’s. They could remember your address and decide to stock you...."

I decide it's time to cut her off...again.

"I live in the middle of a city. Anyone could stock me. And the InstaCart app has ways to get in contact with your shopper as they're shopping. I can approve changes they make, or try and get something different. I have control over what they do, and if something terrible happens and they get none of my food, there's places to complain, and get refunds. Besides, I’m an incredibly busy, ridiculously introverted person, who hates going places. The finite chance something catastrophic happens is well worth it to me."

My friend made a skeptical huffing sound, and I could tell she was winding up for another doomsday pitch. I was really tired, having been up since four AM to write a paper, and it was now seven at night. Tomorrow, I'd have to get up at four again. I still had grocery shopping, cleaning, school work, blog finishing’s, and dinner to do.

"Hey, can I call you back tomorrow? I'm really tired."

When she agreed and hung up the phone, I sigh in relief. Flopping backward onto my bed, I open InstaCart, the controversial topic of the evening. The day after tomorrow is my day to participate in the soup share at work, and I had almost forgotten.

When I open InstaCart, it launches into the main screen. I’ve already selected a store, and set up an account. If I wanted to edit any of this, I could double tap on the account details button, the first button I land on when the app is opened. Setting up an account is easy. When you open the app for the first time, it asks you for your zip code, to verify that you’re in an area that InstaCart can serve. Once that’s done, it asks you to create an account with email, phone number, and password. Next, it prompts you for an address, and payment info comes after that. All of these screens are easy and straight forward, and you can edit any of these options at any time from the button mentioned above. I don’t want this button, however, so I swipe to the right.

The next button tells me the selected store, and the zip code that I’m getting delivered to, verifying that it’s going to, and coming from, the right place. If I wanted to change my store, I’d tap here, and it would bring up a simple menu with all the stores that deliver to my area. I can filter by store type by easily selectable buttons such as drug store, bakery, alcohol, and pet supplies, or just swipe through the list. Tapping on any of them will take me out of the menu, and change my store to the one selected. I have the store I need, so I move on. The next button is the cart button. When there’s something in my cart, this is followed by a number. Now, it says “Cart, empty.” This is where I go to check out. The cart button, conveniently, is always in the same place in every screen. Each screen has a heading close to the top, talking about what the screen is or does. Not only is this convenient for keeping the user oriented, but the cart is always right next to this button, making check out easy when you decide you’re ready.

Next is the search button. I’ll need that for the soup, because it has some things I haven’t ordered yet, or haven’t ordered in several months. Before I activate it though, I want to check when the next delivery slot is. Swiping to the right, the next thing I find is a button telling me that the next available time slot is tomorrow between eight and nine AM. This isn’t what I want, but it tells me that I’m right, and there are no more slots left today. Swiping back to the search button, I bring up the recipe on my computer, put my feet up, and get started.

When I tap on the search button, a search field comes up. Sometimes, it’s easier to swipe to the right, if what I’m looking for is a commonly searched for item, like milk, eggs, or chicken breast, as just below the search button, InstaCart has a small list of things of this nature. Tapping on any of them will execute the search. I am a creature of habit however, so I tend to type what I want. In this case, I want evaporated milk. When I hit the enter key, the search results screen comes up. The first button on the screen is a back button, in case I want to undo the search. Next to that is an element that simply says search. If I double tap that, I’ll reopen the search field. I don’t want to do that, so I keep swiping. Finally, I’ve got my item list. First, it reads the brand, then the item name, then the price, and then the quantity. For these items, the first result reads like this: “Essential Everyday Evaporated Milk, zero dollars and ninety-nine cents, 12 ounces.” Items are always read this way, no matter where you’re looking. When I swipe right, I find more results, and compare prices. Finding that the first one was in fact what I wanted, I swipe back to it and perform the two-finger double tap gesture that can be used to pause and start music. VoiceOver announces that it’s been added to my cart.

For more info and options, I could have double tapped here. Doing this would have given me a screen where I could add specific shopping instructions. Alternatively, this can be done using the actions portion of the roter in cart view. Here, I can also find options to add an item to favorites, a share item button, everything contained on the label, and an option to choose a different quantity. An add to cart button can be found at the bottom of this screen.

The other interesting thing on this screen is a small list of related items. I can tap on these items, or add them with the two-finger double tap gesture. If I tap on an item, and want to tap on one of the items related to it, I can do that too. There’s no limit on how many layers I can go down. For example, I could double tap on eggs, which would lead me to milk, which would go to bread, to serial, to pop tarts. In this hypothetical situation, if I wanted to get back to my main search screen, I wouldn’t have to restart my search if I didn’t want to. I could simply keep hitting the back button at the top of the screen, or perform the two-finger scrub that activates this function. My place in the list would still be kept, and once I was back into my list of search results, I could keep shopping. This feature is available no matter where you’re browsing items. I didn’t need this now though, and I have my milk, so it’s time to search for another item.

I do a four-finger single tap that brings me back to the top of my screen, to the back button. I don’t push it though. Instead, I swipe to the right, onto the element that says search. Double tapping here reinstates the search field, and a press of the backspace key deletes all the text, allowing me to repeat the process for the other things I need for the soup. Sometimes, I have a long list of items, and I need to look at something outside the app, or want to go in and look at related things. With a lot of apps, I’m afraid to do this, because I don’t want to swipe through an extensive list, only to find that because I had to answer a text, I now need to swipe through it all over again. InstaCart remembers where I am. If I’m coming back into the list from another part of my phone, or another screen, I ’ve only got to touch somewhere around the middle of my screen, and the curser will land on, or close to, whatever item I was last on. This cuts my search time in half.

Now, I’m done with the soup search, but I’m not done with my shopping. My fridge is empty, and it’s making me super sad! Happy to do something about this fact, I hit the back button, landing back in the main screen. Just past the button telling me delivery times is a button that says, “Every day store prices.” Tapping here tells me the delivery hours, that the prices on InstaCart reflect the prices in the store, and other miscellaneous bits of information. Next to that, right now, is a button for a rather large coupon. Coupons pop up sporadically throughout the app. Sometimes, if I’m searching for an item, and the results contain items that have discounts, the first item I find will be a coupon, and tapping there will bring me to a list of eligible things. Likewise, if I tap this coupon button, it will take me to its list of items. This element is also a heading, so if I wanted to look there specifically, I could locate it quickly with the headings roter.

Directly beside this is the heading that I actually want, the My Items heading. Other headings worth noting are the random, smaller coupon sections that sometimes appear, the “Popular near You,” heading, the “Savings for You,” heading, and headings for various categories. Right now, I want the heading for my items. If I swipe one to the right, the next thing I see is a button called, “View More.” This button is next to all the headings that have a whole bunch of items, and it’s very useful, particularly when I want to look at things by category. In this case, if I only wanted to see some of the things I’ve ordered in the past, I could keep going without clicking on this, but I want to see everything today, so I tap here. This brings me to a list exactly like the search list. I can add things to the cart in the exact same way, and it’s a good, quick way to find something I know I want that I order on a regular basis. The list acts the same if I keep swiping through instead of hitting the view all button. The only difference is that it’s much shorter, and when it’s done, my curser will move into the next heading section.

If I didn’t want to use the onscreen buttons to activate both the search, and my items functions, InstaCart has tabs at the bottom of the screen. There are five tabs, home, search, browse, coupons, and My items. All of these tabs do exactly what they sound like. I tend to use the buttons, because when I open the app, I usually need several functions, and want information, the buttons give me all of that in one place without having to go to the bottom of the screen and miss other interesting things. However, sometimes the tabs give a little more depth, because they delve further into a section. I think of the buttons on the home screen as adverts in a newspaper, that I can get a lot of information in. Each advert has a really in-depth summary of the article, that has what I need a lot of the time. The tab is like going to the actual story.

The coupons tab has a few more coupons than the headings will give, and sometimes will even give related coupons, something that’s a hit and miss with the button access. It takes you to a list of coupons, detailing how much can be saved, and on what kinds of items. Tapping on a coupon activates the list of items.

The browse tab is handy when I’m hungry and need ideas. I can also sort things by category, just like I can with the headings. It’s also a good place to go if I’m bored.

More interesting though is the my items tab. When I activate the tab rather than the button, I can put together a grocery list. While I can’t use this to directly shop from InstaCart, I can create as many lists as I want, with as many items as I need. Navigating to the my items tab, I’ll pass the cart button, and find several ways to filter the items I’ve bought in the past, including on sale, and by category. After this, I’ll see a button called my lists. Pressing that button, I’ll find any lists I have. The unlabeled button next to them allows me to create a new list. Tapping on any list allows me to view the items in the same format from the other parts of the app, with a text field at the bottom for adding items. The nice thing about doing things with a list is that I can put something in my cart in a different tab, then tap on the my items tab again. It will keep me in the grocery list, without having to find it again. Going back to the tab I searched in allows me to repeat the process. I can also activate the my items button on the home tab, and use the lists the same way. I tend to use the more items category itself as a running list, but it can be a useful thing for complicated shopping or recipes, and I do have a few lists for a few dessert recipes. I already found what I needed in the my items section though, so I think it’s time for me to check out.

Since the cart button is easy to find, right next to the heading, I tap on it. The checkout button is directly at the bottom of the screen. It’s also a heading, so I could use the roter, or a four-finger single tap to get there. Hitting this button brings me to the only part of the app that gets a little fiddly from an accessibility standpoint, choosing a delivery date and time.

Choosing the time can be done with sliders. This seems easy enough, but sometimes, for some strange reason, when I’m swiping through, the slider for the date tends to jump four or five days. When I get into this screen, I touch in the middle of the screen. Depending on where I touched, I’ll probably either be on the slider for date, or the slider for time. If I’m on the date one, I’ll adjust it if I need to, then swipe to the right for time. If I’m on the time, I swipe back to adjust the date if I need, and then go forward to time. Once I have my date and time set, I don’t swipe. If I do, there’s a good chance of messing it up, and it won’t let me go back to the date I need. If this happens, I have to go back out of the screen with the back button, hit the checkout button, and try again. From the time button, I do a four-finger single tap near the bottom of the screen. This brings me to a button that isn’t labeled. Pressing this button confirms the time, and takes me to the next screen in the checkout process.

On this screen, in order, I’ll find a button that says how many items I’m checking out. If I want to review what I’m getting, I can click there. The next option lets me change the delivery time and date, telling me how it’s currently set. The next button reads out my current address and any delivery instructions. Tapping here allows me to add an address, or select a different saved address. Delivery instructions are saved with whatever address I ’ve put them under. Payment info is next, and tapping here allows me to either add a new card, or select a new one. Apple pay is also supported. The last things on the screen are a breakdown of price. First comes my subtotal, then a service fee, which is always ten percent of what I’ve spent, and then a delivery fee, which varies depending on how much I’ve spent, and whether or not I pay the yearly fee for free deliveries. It wraps up with a total, and with how much I’ve saved. I may notice it states it’s going to charge some extra. This is in case I add more items, or end up having to spend a little more on several items. They do refund this if shopping doesn’t use it, but I still flinch when I see what my card’s going to get hit with. It doesn’t stop me from ordering, though. The unlabeled button at the end of this screen places the order. Sighing, I hit the button, and order a pizza, because after that, I’m super hungry!

The next day, I realize I’ve forgotten apple pie. This is an easy mistake to fix, as long as your shopper hasn’t started shopping. Mine hasn’t, so I open the app. If I flick left of the home tab, there’s a button that says, “Add or Edit Items before shopping begins,” along with the delivery time I’ve set. Hitting this brings me to the order screen, where I can look at what I’ve ordered. The add items button is near the top of the screen. Pressing it brings up the search box. Searching for what I need lets me add things to my order the same way I would anything else. When I add an item, it gives me a done button, or lets me reuse the search box. I add my pie, and wait for delivery.

Later, a ding on my phone tells me the shopper has started shopping. After that, I keep a look out for notification sounds. Each time the shopper has to change something, it lets me know. If I open InstaCart through one of these notifications, it gives me a few options. It will give you the change as an element. There are two buttons under this. The other options…button lets me choose from a few similar things. If I click the approve button, both buttons will go away, and it will let the shopper know that I’m ok with what they did. I can also initiate a chat from this screen or under the more options screen. When I start a chat, it not only has any messages my shopper and I send, but everything that’s happened during the shop, all the replacements, and all the things I’ve approved, giving a nice context. When I send a message, it’s marked with my name, and the word customer. When my shopper sends a message, it says their name, and the words personal shopper. The text field for writing a new message is labeled as “New message.” When I first open the chat, the screen likes to jump around, but it stabilizes when I’ve been in the screen a minute. I won’t be chatting at all, however if I miss these notifications, as when the shopper checks out, I no longer have the ability to add or edit items.

When my shopper gets here, he is helpful and professional. He helps me get my groceries inside, chatting about everything and nothing. When he is done, he goes away. That was a few weeks ago and I’m relieved to say that as of now, I have no stocker. I do however have a fridge full of groceries, and a life that is a little simpler and less exhausting because of InstaCart. If you decide you’d like to use this service, find someone you know who already uses it. If you put in their referral code, you get ten dollars towards your first order, as do they. I hope it simplifies and enriches your life as much as it has mine. Happy shopping, and happy eating!

My friend's voice practically lacerates my eardrums as she rockets up six octaves. Startled and trying not to either freeze or curse her out, I drop the phone, then do curse as I lose it in the mess of my unmade bed. Her voice is still nattering on, and my phone has conveniently switched to speaker phone. I decide it's time to try and cut her off.

"Yes, I use InstaCart, a grocery delivery service controlled by app. That means I trust some random stranger to get the groceries I want. I trust a delivery person to know where I live. And yes, that means I also let them in if I have more groceries than I can carry, (which I usually do,) and if they offer to help me, (which they usually do.)"

"But why? You don’t know if they followed your instructions. Your food could get mixed with someone else’s. They could remember your address and decide to stock you...."

I decide it's time to cut her off...again.

"I live in the middle of a city. Anyone could stock me. And the InstaCart app has ways to get in contact with your shopper as they're shopping. I can approve changes they make, or try and get something different. I have control over what they do, and if something terrible happens and they get none of my food, there's places to complain, and get refunds. Besides, I’m an incredibly busy, ridiculously introverted person, who hates going places. The finite chance something catastrophic happens is well worth it to me."

My friend made a skeptical huffing sound, and I could tell she was winding up for another doomsday pitch. I was really tired, having been up since four AM to write a paper, and it was now seven at night. Tomorrow, I'd have to get up at four again. I still had grocery shopping, cleaning, school work, blog finishing’s, and dinner to do.

"Hey, can I call you back tomorrow? I'm really tired."

When she agreed and hung up the phone, I sigh in relief. Flopping backward onto my bed, I open InstaCart, the controversial topic of the evening. The day after tomorrow is my day to participate in the soup share at work, and I had almost forgotten.

When I open InstaCart, it launches into the main screen. I’ve already selected a store, and set up an account. If I wanted to edit any of this, I could double tap on the account details button, the first button I land on when the app is opened. Setting up an account is easy. When you open the app for the first time, it asks you for your zip code, to verify that you’re in an area that InstaCart can serve. Once that’s done, it asks you to create an account with email, phone number, and password. Next, it prompts you for an address, and payment info comes after that. All of these screens are easy and straight forward, and you can edit any of these options at any time from the button mentioned above. I don’t want this button, however, so I swipe to the right.

The next button tells me the selected store, and the zip code that I’m getting delivered to, verifying that it’s going to, and coming from, the right place. If I wanted to change my store, I’d tap here, and it would bring up a simple menu with all the stores that deliver to my area. I can filter by store type by easily selectable buttons such as drug store, bakery, alcohol, and pet supplies, or just swipe through the list. Tapping on any of them will take me out of the menu, and change my store to the one selected. I have the store I need, so I move on. The next button is the cart button. When there’s something in my cart, this is followed by a number. Now, it says “Cart, empty.” This is where I go to check out. The cart button, conveniently, is always in the same place in every screen. Each screen has a heading close to the top, talking about what the screen is or does. Not only is this convenient for keeping the user oriented, but the cart is always right next to this button, making check out easy when you decide you’re ready.

Next is the search button. I’ll need that for the soup, because it has some things I haven’t ordered yet, or haven’t ordered in several months. Before I activate it though, I want to check when the next delivery slot is. Swiping to the right, the next thing I find is a button telling me that the next available time slot is tomorrow between eight and nine AM. This isn’t what I want, but it tells me that I’m right, and there are no more slots left today. Swiping back to the search button, I bring up the recipe on my computer, put my feet up, and get started.

When I tap on the search button, a search field comes up. Sometimes, it’s easier to swipe to the right, if what I’m looking for is a commonly searched for item, like milk, eggs, or chicken breast, as just below the search button, InstaCart has a small list of things of this nature. Tapping on any of them will execute the search. I am a creature of habit however, so I tend to type what I want. In this case, I want evaporated milk. When I hit the enter key, the search results screen comes up. The first button on the screen is a back button, in case I want to undo the search. Next to that is an element that simply says search. If I double tap that, I’ll reopen the search field. I don’t want to do that, so I keep swiping. Finally, I’ve got my item list. First, it reads the brand, then the item name, then the price, and then the quantity. For these items, the first result reads like this: “Essential Everyday Evaporated Milk, zero dollars and ninety-nine cents, 12 ounces.” Items are always read this way, no matter where you’re looking. When I swipe right, I find more results, and compare prices. Finding that the first one was in fact what I wanted, I swipe back to it and perform the two-finger double tap gesture that can be used to pause and start music. VoiceOver announces that it’s been added to my cart.

For more info and options, I could have double tapped here. Doing this would have given me a screen where I could add specific shopping instructions. Alternatively, this can be done using the actions portion of the roter in cart view. Here, I can also find options to add an item to favorites, a share item button, everything contained on the label, and an option to choose a different quantity. An add to cart button can be found at the bottom of this screen.

The other interesting thing on this screen is a small list of related items. I can tap on these items, or add them with the two-finger double tap gesture. If I tap on an item, and want to tap on one of the items related to it, I can do that too. There’s no limit on how many layers I can go down. For example, I could double tap on eggs, which would lead me to milk, which would go to bread, to serial, to pop tarts. In this hypothetical situation, if I wanted to get back to my main search screen, I wouldn’t have to restart my search if I didn’t want to. I could simply keep hitting the back button at the top of the screen, or perform the two-finger scrub that activates this function. My place in the list would still be kept, and once I was back into my list of search results, I could keep shopping. This feature is available no matter where you’re browsing items. I didn’t need this now though, and I have my milk, so it’s time to search for another item.

I do a four-finger single tap that brings me back to the top of my screen, to the back button. I don’t push it though. Instead, I swipe to the right, onto the element that says search. Double tapping here reinstates the search field, and a press of the backspace key deletes all the text, allowing me to repeat the process for the other things I need for the soup. Sometimes, I have a long list of items, and I need to look at something outside the app, or want to go in and look at related things. With a lot of apps, I’m afraid to do this, because I don’t want to swipe through an extensive list, only to find that because I had to answer a text, I now need to swipe through it all over again. InstaCart remembers where I am. If I’m coming back into the list from another part of my phone, or another screen, I ’ve only got to touch somewhere around the middle of my screen, and the curser will land on, or close to, whatever item I was last on. This cuts my search time in half.

Now, I’m done with the soup search, but I’m not done with my shopping. My fridge is empty, and it’s making me super sad! Happy to do something about this fact, I hit the back button, landing back in the main screen. Just past the button telling me delivery times is a button that says, “Every day store prices.” Tapping here tells me the delivery hours, that the prices on InstaCart reflect the prices in the store, and other miscellaneous bits of information. Next to that, right now, is a button for a rather large coupon. Coupons pop up sporadically throughout the app. Sometimes, if I’m searching for an item, and the results contain items that have discounts, the first item I find will be a coupon, and tapping there will bring me to a list of eligible things. Likewise, if I tap this coupon button, it will take me to its list of items. This element is also a heading, so if I wanted to look there specifically, I could locate it quickly with the headings roter.

Directly beside this is the heading that I actually want, the My Items heading. Other headings worth noting are the random, smaller coupon sections that sometimes appear, the “Popular near You,” heading, the “Savings for You,” heading, and headings for various categories. Right now, I want the heading for my items. If I swipe one to the right, the next thing I see is a button called, “View More.” This button is next to all the headings that have a whole bunch of items, and it’s very useful, particularly when I want to look at things by category. In this case, if I only wanted to see some of the things I’ve ordered in the past, I could keep going without clicking on this, but I want to see everything today, so I tap here. This brings me to a list exactly like the search list. I can add things to the cart in the exact same way, and it’s a good, quick way to find something I know I want that I order on a regular basis. The list acts the same if I keep swiping through instead of hitting the view all button. The only difference is that it’s much shorter, and when it’s done, my curser will move into the next heading section.

If I didn’t want to use the onscreen buttons to activate both the search, and my items functions, InstaCart has tabs at the bottom of the screen. There are five tabs, home, search, browse, coupons, and My items. All of these tabs do exactly what they sound like. I tend to use the buttons, because when I open the app, I usually need several functions, and want information, the buttons give me all of that in one place without having to go to the bottom of the screen and miss other interesting things. However, sometimes the tabs give a little more depth, because they delve further into a section. I think of the buttons on the home screen as adverts in a newspaper, that I can get a lot of information in. Each advert has a really in-depth summary of the article, that has what I need a lot of the time. The tab is like going to the actual story.

The coupons tab has a few more coupons than the headings will give, and sometimes will even give related coupons, something that’s a hit and miss with the button access. It takes you to a list of coupons, detailing how much can be saved, and on what kinds of items. Tapping on a coupon activates the list of items.

The browse tab is handy when I’m hungry and need ideas. I can also sort things by category, just like I can with the headings. It’s also a good place to go if I’m bored.

More interesting though is the my items tab. When I activate the tab rather than the button, I can put together a grocery list. While I can’t use this to directly shop from InstaCart, I can create as many lists as I want, with as many items as I need. Navigating to the my items tab, I’ll pass the cart button, and find several ways to filter the items I’ve bought in the past, including on sale, and by category. After this, I’ll see a button called my lists. Pressing that button, I’ll find any lists I have. The unlabeled button next to them allows me to create a new list. Tapping on any list allows me to view the items in the same format from the other parts of the app, with a text field at the bottom for adding items. The nice thing about doing things with a list is that I can put something in my cart in a different tab, then tap on the my items tab again. It will keep me in the grocery list, without having to find it again. Going back to the tab I searched in allows me to repeat the process. I can also activate the my items button on the home tab, and use the lists the same way. I tend to use the more items category itself as a running list, but it can be a useful thing for complicated shopping or recipes, and I do have a few lists for a few dessert recipes. I already found what I needed in the my items section though, so I think it’s time for me to check out.

Since the cart button is easy to find, right next to the heading, I tap on it. The checkout button is directly at the bottom of the screen. It’s also a heading, so I could use the roter, or a four-finger single tap to get there. Hitting this button brings me to the only part of the app that gets a little fiddly from an accessibility standpoint, choosing a delivery date and time.

Choosing the time can be done with sliders. This seems easy enough, but sometimes, for some strange reason, when I’m swiping through, the slider for the date tends to jump four or five days. When I get into this screen, I touch in the middle of the screen. Depending on where I touched, I’ll probably either be on the slider for date, or the slider for time. If I’m on the date one, I’ll adjust it if I need to, then swipe to the right for time. If I’m on the time, I swipe back to adjust the date if I need, and then go forward to time. Once I have my date and time set, I don’t swipe. If I do, there’s a good chance of messing it up, and it won’t let me go back to the date I need. If this happens, I have to go back out of the screen with the back button, hit the checkout button, and try again. From the time button, I do a four-finger single tap near the bottom of the screen. This brings me to a button that isn’t labeled. Pressing this button confirms the time, and takes me to the next screen in the checkout process.

On this screen, in order, I’ll find a button that says how many items I’m checking out. If I want to review what I’m getting, I can click there. The next option lets me change the delivery time and date, telling me how it’s currently set. The next button reads out my current address and any delivery instructions. Tapping here allows me to add an address, or select a different saved address. Delivery instructions are saved with whatever address I ’ve put them under. Payment info is next, and tapping here allows me to either add a new card, or select a new one. Apple pay is also supported. The last things on the screen are a breakdown of price. First comes my subtotal, then a service fee, which is always ten percent of what I’ve spent, and then a delivery fee, which varies depending on how much I’ve spent, and whether or not I pay the yearly fee for free deliveries. It wraps up with a total, and with how much I’ve saved. I may notice it states it’s going to charge some extra. This is in case I add more items, or end up having to spend a little more on several items. They do refund this if shopping doesn’t use it, but I still flinch when I see what my card’s going to get hit with. It doesn’t stop me from ordering, though. The unlabeled button at the end of this screen places the order. Sighing, I hit the button, and order a pizza, because after that, I’m super hungry!

The next day, I realize I’ve forgotten apple pie. This is an easy mistake to fix, as long as your shopper hasn’t started shopping. Mine hasn’t, so I open the app. If I flick left of the home tab, there’s a button that says, “Add or Edit Items before shopping begins,” along with the delivery time I’ve set. Hitting this brings me to the order screen, where I can look at what I’ve ordered. The add items button is near the top of the screen. Pressing it brings up the search box. Searching for what I need lets me add things to my order the same way I would anything else. When I add an item, it gives me a done button, or lets me reuse the search box. I add my pie, and wait for delivery.

Later, a ding on my phone tells me the shopper has started shopping. After that, I keep a look out for notification sounds. Each time the shopper has to change something, it lets me know. If I open InstaCart through one of these notifications, it gives me a few options. It will give you the change as an element. There are two buttons under this. The other options…button lets me choose from a few similar things. If I click the approve button, both buttons will go away, and it will let the shopper know that I’m ok with what they did. I can also initiate a chat from this screen or under the more options screen. When I start a chat, it not only has any messages my shopper and I send, but everything that’s happened during the shop, all the replacements, and all the things I’ve approved, giving a nice context. When I send a message, it’s marked with my name, and the word customer. When my shopper sends a message, it says their name, and the words personal shopper. The text field for writing a new message is labeled as “New message.” When I first open the chat, the screen likes to jump around, but it stabilizes when I’ve been in the screen a minute. I won’t be chatting at all, however if I miss these notifications, as when the shopper checks out, I no longer have the ability to add or edit items.

When my shopper gets here, he is helpful and professional. He helps me get my groceries inside, chatting about everything and nothing. When he is done, he goes away. That was a few weeks ago and I’m relieved to say that as of now, I have no stocker. I do however have a fridge full of groceries, and a life that is a little simpler and less exhausting because of InstaCart. If you decide you’d like to use this service, find someone you know who already uses it. If you put in their referral code, you get ten dollars towards your first order, as do they. I hope it simplifies and enriches your life as much as it has mine. Happy shopping, and happy eating!

Hy Cohen teaches assistive technology , is a husband and a father who places a lot of focus on the family. Hy is an advocate for change and has worked to create a law. Layla’s Law, that gives service animals rights and protections. Accepting challenges is just part of Hy’s life style.

Hy is an Aira Explorer and uses the Aira technology to read books to his daughter, locate her at the park and have instant access to information.

Join Jeff Thompson in this 20 minute interview and hear about teaching, education, parenting, and changing the law because he could.

Hy Cohen teaches assistive technology , is a husband and a father who places a lot of focus on the family. Hy is an advocate for change and has worked to create a law. Layla’s Law, that gives service animals rights and protections. Accepting challenges is just part of Hy’s life style.

Hy is an Aira Explorer and uses the Aira technology to read books to his daughter, locate her at the park and have instant access to information.

Join Jeff Thompson in this 20 minute interview and hear about teaching, education, parenting, and changing the law because he could.

]]>22:52noHy Cohen teaches assistive technology , is a husband and a father who places a lot of focus on the family. Hy is an advocate for change and has worked to create a law. Layla’s Law, that gives service animals rights and protections. Accepting challenges is just part of Hy’s life style.
1341fullAira Presents Stephanie Hurd: Doing Ordinary Things Independently Every DayAira Presents Stephanie Hurd: Doing Ordinary Things Independently Every DayMon, 11 Dec 2017 15:55:33 +0000Aira Presents Stephanie Hurd: Doing Ordinary Things Independently Every Day

Aira Presents, Explorer Stories, a look into the extraordinary and often ordinary stories of Aira Explorers and how they use this technology in their daily lives.

In this episode of Explorer Stories, Aira presents Stephanie Hurd. We hope you enjoy.

For some in the blind community horseback riding, surfing, rock climbing or zip lining might be the ultimate experiences to stoke their adventurer fire. For others, just shopping or taking a walk through the neighborhood are what really matter most. And then there are those who do it all because they've found that Aira brings with it the freedom to explore, experience and engage in virtually anything they might want to do. Meet Stephanie Hurd.

Stephanie first heard about Aira through a friend, and as fate would have it had the opportunity to try it for herself at the Future In Sight offices where she creates and manages programs for the visually impaired community in New Hampshire.

Stephanie has found that this new service is making trips for work more enjoyable by enabling her to freely and confidently explore hotels. The information she gets from her agent gives her independence not previously possible.

At the end of the day, whether Stephanie is at work teaching a technology class for other visually impaired people, traveling for an event or conference, shopping or just hanging out with her family Aira is becoming a part of every day. And when she sums it up, it is easy to see why.

"It's pretty simple.” Stephanie says, "I found a greater level of freedom and independence for sure with the Aira Glasses.”

Aira Presents, Explorer Stories, a look into the extraordinary and often ordinary stories of Aira Explorers and how they use this technology in their daily lives.

In this episode of Explorer Stories, Aira presents Stephanie Hurd. We hope you enjoy.

For some in the blind community horseback riding, surfing, rock climbing or zip lining might be the ultimate experiences to stoke their adventurer fire. For others, just shopping or taking a walk through the neighborhood are what really matter most. And then there are those who do it all because they've found that Aira brings with it the freedom to explore, experience and engage in virtually anything they might want to do. Meet Stephanie Hurd.

Stephanie first heard about Aira through a friend, and as fate would have it had the opportunity to try it for herself at the Future In Sight offices where she creates and manages programs for the visually impaired community in New Hampshire.

Stephanie has found that this new service is making trips for work more enjoyable by enabling her to freely and confidently explore hotels. The information she gets from her agent gives her independence not previously possible.

At the end of the day, whether Stephanie is at work teaching a technology class for other visually impaired people, traveling for an event or conference, shopping or just hanging out with her family Aira is becoming a part of every day. And when she sums it up, it is easy to see why.

"It's pretty simple.” Stephanie says, "I found a greater level of freedom and independence for sure with the Aira Glasses.”

]]>10:09noAira Presents, Explorer Stories, a look into the extraordinary and often ordinary stories of Aira Explorers and how they use this technology in their daily lives.
In this episode of Explorer Stories, Aira presents Stephanie Hurd. We hope you enjoy.1340fullA Lil Sumpin’ Sumpin’ for the Holidays! Gift Ideas for Stuffing that Stocking!A Lil Sumpin’ Sumpin’ for the Holidays! Gift Ideas for Stuffing that Stocking!Thu, 07 Dec 2017 16:42:26 +0000A Lil Sumpin’ Sumpin’ for the Holidays! Gift Ideas for Stuffing that Stocking!

Join the Blind Abilities Team for a Lil Sumpin’ Sumpin’ for the Holidays. Nick, Jessica, Pete and Jeff along with friends serve of some holiday wishes and gift ideas for all to consider. We thought sharing our stocking stuffing incarnations would help spread the joy of giving during the festive month of December. We hope you enjoy and to all, a wonderful Holiday Season and to all, a Happy new Year!

The Blind Abilities Team.

With the ever changing sales and promotions we thought it best to suggest checking your favorite stores and outlets for the suggested gift ideas. amazon.com offers a wide variety of goods and remember to check the reviews as they may help in your decision making process. Remember to be aware of deals that seem to good to be real. PayPal and other forms of transaction offer some safeguards in your purchased agreements. Shop wisely and safely.

]]>A Lil Sumpin’ Sumpin’ for the Holidays! Gift Ideas for Stuffing that Stocking!

Join the Blind Abilities Team for a Lil Sumpin’ Sumpin’ for the Holidays. Nick, Jessica, Pete and Jeff along with friends serve of some holiday wishes and gift ideas for all to consider. We thought sharing our stocking stuffing incarnations would help spread the joy of giving during the festive month of December. We hope you enjoy and to all, a wonderful Holiday Season and to all, a Happy new Year!

The Blind Abilities Team.

With the ever changing sales and promotions we thought it best to suggest checking your favorite stores and outlets for the suggested gift ideas. amazon.com offers a wide variety of goods and remember to check the reviews as they may help in your decision making process. Remember to be aware of deals that seem to good to be real. PayPal and other forms of transaction offer some safeguards in your purchased agreements. Shop wisely and safely.

]]>13:17noJoin the Blind Abilities Team for a Lil Sumpin’ Sumpin’ for the Holidays. Nick, Jessica, Pete and Jeff along with friends serve of some holiday wishes and gift ideas for all to consider. We thought sharing our stocking stuffing incarnations would help spread the joy of giving during the festive month of December. We hope you enjoy and to all, a wonderful Holiday Season and to all, a Happy new Year!1339fullAmazon Prime Video App Now on Apple TV with Audio Descriptions! #ThatBlindTechShowAmazon Prime Video App Now on Apple TV with Audio Descriptions! #ThatBlindTechShowThu, 07 Dec 2017 03:37:10 +0000Amazon Prime Video App Now on Apple TV with Audio Descriptions!

The Amazon Prime Video App is now on Apple TV. Just go into your Apple TV and click on the Apps icon and search for Prime Video. Do not type in Amazon. Go figure, eh?

You will need an Apple TV 3rd Generation or newer, and you will need an Amazon prime account and then just sign in and the shows are at your finger-tips.

For Audio Description you will have to pause the show you are watching and then swipe down to media controls and then swipe to Audio and in the audio section you will find Language and then swipe down to English US and swipe down again to the next English US and single finger double tap and Audio description is on.

I put the new Prime Video App in the top row of my apps right next to Netflix. It may be cold here in Minnesota but having this new addition to my Apple TV warmed things up a bit especially with Audio Description working as well as it does.

The Amazon Prime Video App is now on Apple TV. Just go into your Apple TV and click on the Apps icon and search for Prime Video. Do not type in Amazon. Go figure, eh?

You will need an Apple TV 3rd Generation or newer, and you will need an Amazon prime account and then just sign in and the shows are at your finger-tips.

For Audio Description you will have to pause the show you are watching and then swipe down to media controls and then swipe to Audio and in the audio section you will find Language and then swipe down to English US and swipe down again to the next English US and single finger double tap and Audio description is on.

I put the new Prime Video App in the top row of my apps right next to Netflix. It may be cold here in Minnesota but having this new addition to my Apple TV warmed things up a bit especially with Audio Description working as well as it does.

]]>17:02noThe Amazon Prime Video App is now on Apple TV. Just go into your Apple TV and click on the Apps icon and search for Prime Video. Do not type in Amazon. Go figure, eh?
You will need an Apple TV 3rd Generation or newer, and you will need an Amazon prime account and then just sign in and the shows are at your finger-tips.
1338fullA Delicious Dance; Meeting the Inhabitance of My Kitchen Drawers #IndependentLivingMon, 04 Dec 2017 20:04:22 +0000A Delicious Dance; Meeting the Inhabitance of My Kitchen Drawers #IndependentLiving

I couldn't find the egg separator. The can opener had fallen on my tow, a pan decided it wanted to break dance on the floor, and the Tupperware decided it wanted to do jumping jacks, all while my tow was singing an operatic aria. It wasn’t much to ask, just the silly egg separator so that I could get to work on the meringue cookies I'd promised to bake for a bake sale. Not that I have the right to hope for such a thing, since it’s all my fault. I'm hardly organized, and usually in a hurry when I'm trying to put dishes and such things away. Add to that I only have one cabinet, and one drawer...and you've got a cramped space where organization is necessary, but not happening. While I'm trying to gather the unruly children of my tiny cabinet village and singing a quiet descant of curses to my vibrating tow, my phone rings.

"Hello," I grunt, trying not to sound like a strangled and slightly breathless cow.

"Hello, Jessica?"

“Yes, this is she."

“Hi, I'm Elena, with Instacart, and I'm down in the lobby."

Oh, dang. I completely forgot I ordered groceries. Ordinarily, I love Instacart. It's a service that allows you to order groceries online, schedule a time of delivery, pay a smidgen extra, and have all your groceries conveniently brought to you. I am very much an introvert, and as previously discussed on these blogs, I am not that adept at travel, so there’s always a decent chance of taking a lot more time than I need to. add to that my dislike of noisy places and unnecessary talking to random people, and the amount of homework I've got to do, and you can see why I'd be all too happy to give the arduous and stressful task of grocery shopping to someone else.

Per my usual, I'd scheduled these the day before. Unlike usual, I forgot about them. My phone had been pinging me with updates the past hour, I saw now as I looked at my screen. There were refunds and replacements I'd completely missed, including an incredibly coveted rotisserie chicken. They taste amazing, and allow me to be lazy and not cook while getting awesome tasting food! But alas, it was not to be today. Furthermore, I already had something melting on the stove, a candy coating for pecans to be sold along with the cookies. Quickly, I turned off the stove, grabbed my cane, and mumbled something almost incoherent about being down in 25 seconds and a segment of minutes...

The Instacart shopper was friendly and professional, and thankfully didn't snap about the wait, the sugar clinging to my clothes, or the state of my kitchen when she helped carry the seven bags of groceries into my apartment a few minutes later. Once I'd tipped her, and she'd gone on her way to the next customer, I hastily finished the pecans, then unpacked the groceries, starting some soft Celtic music as I did so. I took the few minutes to vent, slamming the fridge open and closed harder than needed, and having a tiny bit of fun at the expense of some of the sturdier groceries. It had been a long day. I'd gotten lost four various times, probably failed an exam, lost my headset, lost an eBay auction, broken the jar I use to hold my nutmeg, lost half of my other spice jars because I hid them under my bed temporarily for the sake of my storage space, and now, had no dinner plans! Sighing, I shook my head, and decided this was going to be my night. I was going to have a delicious meal, and have fun doing it. Smiling now, I turned the music up a little louder and started humming under my breath. Once I finished my meringues, it was going to be a pork chops and apples night. First though I had to fight with egg whites. They're messy, unruly, and delicious once they're all fluffed up, sweetened, and baked into soft, melty pieces of air. But getting them first into the de vine fluff, and then into evenly spaced clumps on a cookie sheet is...difficult. Usually, if I’m making cookies, I use an iced cream scoop with a handle that squeezes, pushing the contents out into a pile. This allows for good, consistent sized chunks, and makes spacing a smidgen easier. However, stuff like this is too delicate for those, so I must freeform it. For a second, I try using a funnel, and positioning it over the sheet in hopes that I could get better spacing and less spreading that way, but it was more of a mess than it was worth. Sighing, I decided that though I could use funnels to fit over the openings of muffin tins, making for an easier, cleaner muffin spacing, they couldn’t help me anywhere else. Grumbling about funnels, spoons, missing chickens, and eggs, I proceeded to scoop my cookies onto the sheet, trying to keep focus on the apples and meat ahead of me. The result was a successful cookie pan...mostly. Sadly, it made a war zone out of my counter. Ah, well. It doesn't matter. The other food will make it all worth it. And it's now, officially, time to get started.

Wiping egg white splatter off the counter, I load up my bookmarks in Safari, the iPhone’s default browser. Thankfully, the pork bookmark is right next to the one for the bacon and brussel sprouts I plan to also make tonight. But pork comes first.

There are many ways to get these chops done. I did them once in a friend’s instant pot, a smart pot that pressure cooks, sautés, slow cooks, cooks rice, yogurt, and much more. Its accessible app lets you walk away and keep control of what the pot is doing, and it's got advantages since everything can be cooked in one pot, due to the different settings. Even cooler, the app has built in scripts for recipes, switching the settings and temperatures at appropriate times without you even having to look at your phone, or the display. You can even make your own custom scripts. However, these pots are very expensive, and popular, so getting them cheap isn't easy. As a result, I, sadly, don't have this newfangled thing, so a combination of oven and stovetop will have to do. Thankfully, that isn’t a problem, since I had a reader come in with fabric paint, and put dots on the oven at specific temperature increments. Sighing, I take a deep breath, and glare down at my toe. It's time for my cabinet village, my stove, my fridge, my phone, and I to do a little dance number I call, "How not to run a kitchen well, but make really tasty food while doing so."

With beautiful timing, the next item that decides to do acrobatic summersaults is my apple slicer, which I want now. It's a metal device with a circle in the middle, surrounded by straight, metal bars. Fitting the stem of the apple through the center of the circle, and firmly pressing down yields a cored and sliced apple. Though I've done apple slicing and coring by hand, sometimes, I like the convenience of this. While this makes thicker slices than I'd like, it allows me to quickly cut and core an apple. Then, I can cut the slices into smaller chunks. And today, I liked the feeling of the apple giving way under my fingers. It melted away the last of my tension, and I was finally able to relax a little. This dinner was going to be beautiful!

Once the apples are cut, I fish for my measuring cups, and spoons. I know which is which by size, though sometimes I've been tempted to use fabric paint to put dots on the handles, or buy tactile spoons and cups from maxiaids.com. Once I've found my set, measuring is a breeze. Fantasizing about how good everything will taste, I put the apples and other ingredients into a baking dish, and keep moving forward in my dance.

After I put the forgotten meringue cookies in the oven, it's time to brown the pork chops. This is useful because it locks the juices into the pork chops, preventing them from drying in the oven. I know, from previous experiences, that they need to cook for four minutes on one side, and 3 on the other. I've only got one problem; the iPhone can only have one timer set at a time, and I have cookies in the oven. One possible solution to this, as I found out at another friend’s, is to get one of Amazon's Echo products. Equipped with Alexa, your cloud based personal assistant, the various Echo iterations allow you to talk hands free to a computer, and have it respond back. Music is a large focus of these, but they can also do much more. Thankfully for this hypothetical situation, you can set as many timers as needed, without touching anything, and control your music at the same time. With some programs built for the device, you can even have Alexa walk you through your recipe, from ingredients, to shoving food in your face, and the best part is that you don't even have to pay her in food for the help. But if you're like me, and don't have one of these, there’s still a solution. Sadly, it involves yet again diving into the strange territory that is my cupboard. I pause for a moment to collect myself, then dive for my needed item, a zip lock bag, trying to ignore the mixer I just put away as it tries to smile at me while ramming its beater neatly into my eye. Coming up triumphantly with the bag, I heave a sigh of relief, and snag a handful of pecans…no one will notice…right? I deserve it, after all. But eating these makes me remember how hungry I am, and I get back to work with renewed vigor.

Break over, I put my phone in the zip lock. This way, I can still use my phone without getting it dirty. Once that's done, I load up alarmed. Alarmed is an app I return to on a regular basis for cooking related reminders and timers. Because I can set reminders to repeat after certain periods of time, I use it when I have long term projects that I need to add things to, or consistently flip over. It also allows me to have several timers running at once, with abilities to quickly delete or duplicate them. Even better, it lets me assign different names, and sounds, to each timer, so I know exactly what's needing my attention now. Setting the revolving round of timers, I start browning pork.

Once I'm fed up with timer sounds and duplicating timers, and my house is full of the smell of pork, I put the pork over my apples, season it, add the last few ingredients, and wrap the whole thing in tin foil to keep moisture in. Then, I take out my meat thermometer while skillfully avoiding a slice from one of my knives. Like most kitchen equipment, there are lots of choices for thermometers. Talking ones are available from maxiaids.com, and they work well, reliably, and are improving with each generation. However, I like smart things, and I found for the same price, I could get a thermometer that does so much more. It's smaller, too, a compact, plastic base, a long, long wire, and the probe that goes into whatever you're measuring. Including the holder for thermometer and probe, the entire thing fits into the palm of my hand. And it's very powerful. With its companion app, the iGrill mini lets you select what meat your cooking, and how well you want it done. Then, when your meat goes to the stovetop, or the oven, the probe stays inside, continuously keeping tabs on the temperature as the food cooks. It sends notifications to your phone when your meat is close to being ready, and when the desired temperature is acquired. If you buy the larger version of this, you can measure multiple things at one time. The only drawback to this is how long the wire is that connects the base to the probe. It’s great because it gives you enough room to put things exactly where you want them while baking, but it gets interesting when trying to put things in the oven, making sure the probe is still in the meat, while nothing is where it shouldn't be. Thankfully, this can be mastered with some practice...mostly. Closing the oven door and arranging what wire I have left on the counter, I move to the Brussels sprouts, chopping them in half, mincing onion, and cooking it all with bacon, a little more than the recipe says to put, because why not? Just as I'm pulling the pan off the stove, my phone starts beeping, a signal that the pork chops are done. As I pull it out, I check to make sure that the thermometer is still in the center of the meat, and getting an accurate read. It is, so I set the pan on the stove to cool.

When I'm finished eating, I clean up, then decide I'm still craving something. While that was incredibly calming, I now want to relax with my feet up and a book in one ear. I decide the best paring with that is a nice, cup of hot tea. My music changes to reflect my mood, and I decide how I want to make the tea. If I want a lot of water for tea, I'd use a pot on the stove, and I could use a pot watcher, a small, grooved glass disk to make sure I didn't sleep through my water boiling. It sits at the bottom of the pan, and rattles when water boils, the bubbles interacting with the grooves in the glass, moving it up and down, and side to side. Tonight, though, I don't want the hassle, and don't want that much water, so I fill my simple electric tea kettle. It's easy to clean, simple to pour and has an automatic shut off, so if I sleep through the water boiling, it's fine. Five minutes later, I have some nice, mint tea, a few stolen meringue cookies, and some soft choral Christmas music. I curl up in bed under my electric blanket, and drift off to sleep, thinking of what, and how, to cook for Thanksgiving...but before I go, I hope you've found something useful here, or at least enjoy the included recipes. If you'd like more basic tips on cooking, keep a lookout for upcoming podcasts and blogs. I'm sorry if I missed something vital. If I did, don't be afraid to send an email through and let me know. I'm always looking for more cooking advice. Thank you for reading, I hope your tows don't know any opera, and you can both have many good, silent nights in the kitchen!

I couldn't find the egg separator. The can opener had fallen on my tow, a pan decided it wanted to break dance on the floor, and the Tupperware decided it wanted to do jumping jacks, all while my tow was singing an operatic aria. It wasn’t much to ask, just the silly egg separator so that I could get to work on the meringue cookies I'd promised to bake for a bake sale. Not that I have the right to hope for such a thing, since it’s all my fault. I'm hardly organized, and usually in a hurry when I'm trying to put dishes and such things away. Add to that I only have one cabinet, and one drawer...and you've got a cramped space where organization is necessary, but not happening. While I'm trying to gather the unruly children of my tiny cabinet village and singing a quiet descant of curses to my vibrating tow, my phone rings.

"Hello," I grunt, trying not to sound like a strangled and slightly breathless cow.

"Hello, Jessica?"

“Yes, this is she."

“Hi, I'm Elena, with Instacart, and I'm down in the lobby."

Oh, dang. I completely forgot I ordered groceries. Ordinarily, I love Instacart. It's a service that allows you to order groceries online, schedule a time of delivery, pay a smidgen extra, and have all your groceries conveniently brought to you. I am very much an introvert, and as previously discussed on these blogs, I am not that adept at travel, so there’s always a decent chance of taking a lot more time than I need to. add to that my dislike of noisy places and unnecessary talking to random people, and the amount of homework I've got to do, and you can see why I'd be all too happy to give the arduous and stressful task of grocery shopping to someone else.

Per my usual, I'd scheduled these the day before. Unlike usual, I forgot about them. My phone had been pinging me with updates the past hour, I saw now as I looked at my screen. There were refunds and replacements I'd completely missed, including an incredibly coveted rotisserie chicken. They taste amazing, and allow me to be lazy and not cook while getting awesome tasting food! But alas, it was not to be today. Furthermore, I already had something melting on the stove, a candy coating for pecans to be sold along with the cookies. Quickly, I turned off the stove, grabbed my cane, and mumbled something almost incoherent about being down in 25 seconds and a segment of minutes...

The Instacart shopper was friendly and professional, and thankfully didn't snap about the wait, the sugar clinging to my clothes, or the state of my kitchen when she helped carry the seven bags of groceries into my apartment a few minutes later. Once I'd tipped her, and she'd gone on her way to the next customer, I hastily finished the pecans, then unpacked the groceries, starting some soft Celtic music as I did so. I took the few minutes to vent, slamming the fridge open and closed harder than needed, and having a tiny bit of fun at the expense of some of the sturdier groceries. It had been a long day. I'd gotten lost four various times, probably failed an exam, lost my headset, lost an eBay auction, broken the jar I use to hold my nutmeg, lost half of my other spice jars because I hid them under my bed temporarily for the sake of my storage space, and now, had no dinner plans! Sighing, I shook my head, and decided this was going to be my night. I was going to have a delicious meal, and have fun doing it. Smiling now, I turned the music up a little louder and started humming under my breath. Once I finished my meringues, it was going to be a pork chops and apples night. First though I had to fight with egg whites. They're messy, unruly, and delicious once they're all fluffed up, sweetened, and baked into soft, melty pieces of air. But getting them first into the de vine fluff, and then into evenly spaced clumps on a cookie sheet is...difficult. Usually, if I’m making cookies, I use an iced cream scoop with a handle that squeezes, pushing the contents out into a pile. This allows for good, consistent sized chunks, and makes spacing a smidgen easier. However, stuff like this is too delicate for those, so I must freeform it. For a second, I try using a funnel, and positioning it over the sheet in hopes that I could get better spacing and less spreading that way, but it was more of a mess than it was worth. Sighing, I decided that though I could use funnels to fit over the openings of muffin tins, making for an easier, cleaner muffin spacing, they couldn’t help me anywhere else. Grumbling about funnels, spoons, missing chickens, and eggs, I proceeded to scoop my cookies onto the sheet, trying to keep focus on the apples and meat ahead of me. The result was a successful cookie pan...mostly. Sadly, it made a war zone out of my counter. Ah, well. It doesn't matter. The other food will make it all worth it. And it's now, officially, time to get started.

Wiping egg white splatter off the counter, I load up my bookmarks in Safari, the iPhone’s default browser. Thankfully, the pork bookmark is right next to the one for the bacon and brussel sprouts I plan to also make tonight. But pork comes first.

There are many ways to get these chops done. I did them once in a friend’s instant pot, a smart pot that pressure cooks, sautés, slow cooks, cooks rice, yogurt, and much more. Its accessible app lets you walk away and keep control of what the pot is doing, and it's got advantages since everything can be cooked in one pot, due to the different settings. Even cooler, the app has built in scripts for recipes, switching the settings and temperatures at appropriate times without you even having to look at your phone, or the display. You can even make your own custom scripts. However, these pots are very expensive, and popular, so getting them cheap isn't easy. As a result, I, sadly, don't have this newfangled thing, so a combination of oven and stovetop will have to do. Thankfully, that isn’t a problem, since I had a reader come in with fabric paint, and put dots on the oven at specific temperature increments. Sighing, I take a deep breath, and glare down at my toe. It's time for my cabinet village, my stove, my fridge, my phone, and I to do a little dance number I call, "How not to run a kitchen well, but make really tasty food while doing so."

With beautiful timing, the next item that decides to do acrobatic summersaults is my apple slicer, which I want now. It's a metal device with a circle in the middle, surrounded by straight, metal bars. Fitting the stem of the apple through the center of the circle, and firmly pressing down yields a cored and sliced apple. Though I've done apple slicing and coring by hand, sometimes, I like the convenience of this. While this makes thicker slices than I'd like, it allows me to quickly cut and core an apple. Then, I can cut the slices into smaller chunks. And today, I liked the feeling of the apple giving way under my fingers. It melted away the last of my tension, and I was finally able to relax a little. This dinner was going to be beautiful!

Once the apples are cut, I fish for my measuring cups, and spoons. I know which is which by size, though sometimes I've been tempted to use fabric paint to put dots on the handles, or buy tactile spoons and cups from maxiaids.com. Once I've found my set, measuring is a breeze. Fantasizing about how good everything will taste, I put the apples and other ingredients into a baking dish, and keep moving forward in my dance.

After I put the forgotten meringue cookies in the oven, it's time to brown the pork chops. This is useful because it locks the juices into the pork chops, preventing them from drying in the oven. I know, from previous experiences, that they need to cook for four minutes on one side, and 3 on the other. I've only got one problem; the iPhone can only have one timer set at a time, and I have cookies in the oven. One possible solution to this, as I found out at another friend’s, is to get one of Amazon's Echo products. Equipped with Alexa, your cloud based personal assistant, the various Echo iterations allow you to talk hands free to a computer, and have it respond back. Music is a large focus of these, but they can also do much more. Thankfully for this hypothetical situation, you can set as many timers as needed, without touching anything, and control your music at the same time. With some programs built for the device, you can even have Alexa walk you through your recipe, from ingredients, to shoving food in your face, and the best part is that you don't even have to pay her in food for the help. But if you're like me, and don't have one of these, there’s still a solution. Sadly, it involves yet again diving into the strange territory that is my cupboard. I pause for a moment to collect myself, then dive for my needed item, a zip lock bag, trying to ignore the mixer I just put away as it tries to smile at me while ramming its beater neatly into my eye. Coming up triumphantly with the bag, I heave a sigh of relief, and snag a handful of pecans…no one will notice…right? I deserve it, after all. But eating these makes me remember how hungry I am, and I get back to work with renewed vigor.

Break over, I put my phone in the zip lock. This way, I can still use my phone without getting it dirty. Once that's done, I load up alarmed. Alarmed is an app I return to on a regular basis for cooking related reminders and timers. Because I can set reminders to repeat after certain periods of time, I use it when I have long term projects that I need to add things to, or consistently flip over. It also allows me to have several timers running at once, with abilities to quickly delete or duplicate them. Even better, it lets me assign different names, and sounds, to each timer, so I know exactly what's needing my attention now. Setting the revolving round of timers, I start browning pork.

Once I'm fed up with timer sounds and duplicating timers, and my house is full of the smell of pork, I put the pork over my apples, season it, add the last few ingredients, and wrap the whole thing in tin foil to keep moisture in. Then, I take out my meat thermometer while skillfully avoiding a slice from one of my knives. Like most kitchen equipment, there are lots of choices for thermometers. Talking ones are available from maxiaids.com, and they work well, reliably, and are improving with each generation. However, I like smart things, and I found for the same price, I could get a thermometer that does so much more. It's smaller, too, a compact, plastic base, a long, long wire, and the probe that goes into whatever you're measuring. Including the holder for thermometer and probe, the entire thing fits into the palm of my hand. And it's very powerful. With its companion app, the iGrill mini lets you select what meat your cooking, and how well you want it done. Then, when your meat goes to the stovetop, or the oven, the probe stays inside, continuously keeping tabs on the temperature as the food cooks. It sends notifications to your phone when your meat is close to being ready, and when the desired temperature is acquired. If you buy the larger version of this, you can measure multiple things at one time. The only drawback to this is how long the wire is that connects the base to the probe. It’s great because it gives you enough room to put things exactly where you want them while baking, but it gets interesting when trying to put things in the oven, making sure the probe is still in the meat, while nothing is where it shouldn't be. Thankfully, this can be mastered with some practice...mostly. Closing the oven door and arranging what wire I have left on the counter, I move to the Brussels sprouts, chopping them in half, mincing onion, and cooking it all with bacon, a little more than the recipe says to put, because why not? Just as I'm pulling the pan off the stove, my phone starts beeping, a signal that the pork chops are done. As I pull it out, I check to make sure that the thermometer is still in the center of the meat, and getting an accurate read. It is, so I set the pan on the stove to cool.

When I'm finished eating, I clean up, then decide I'm still craving something. While that was incredibly calming, I now want to relax with my feet up and a book in one ear. I decide the best paring with that is a nice, cup of hot tea. My music changes to reflect my mood, and I decide how I want to make the tea. If I want a lot of water for tea, I'd use a pot on the stove, and I could use a pot watcher, a small, grooved glass disk to make sure I didn't sleep through my water boiling. It sits at the bottom of the pan, and rattles when water boils, the bubbles interacting with the grooves in the glass, moving it up and down, and side to side. Tonight, though, I don't want the hassle, and don't want that much water, so I fill my simple electric tea kettle. It's easy to clean, simple to pour and has an automatic shut off, so if I sleep through the water boiling, it's fine. Five minutes later, I have some nice, mint tea, a few stolen meringue cookies, and some soft choral Christmas music. I curl up in bed under my electric blanket, and drift off to sleep, thinking of what, and how, to cook for Thanksgiving...but before I go, I hope you've found something useful here, or at least enjoy the included recipes. If you'd like more basic tips on cooking, keep a lookout for upcoming podcasts and blogs. I'm sorry if I missed something vital. If I did, don't be afraid to send an email through and let me know. I'm always looking for more cooking advice. Thank you for reading, I hope your tows don't know any opera, and you can both have many good, silent nights in the kitchen!

]]>fullTBTS#9: Pigs on a Plane, Sonos 1 Have Landed, and the HomePod Flight is Canceled.TBTS#9: Pigs on a Plane, Sonos 1 Have Landed, and the HomePod Flight is Canceled.Sat, 02 Dec 2017 00:44:11 +0000TBTS#9: Pigs on a Plane, Sonos 1 Have Landed, and the HomePod Flight is Canceled.

Allison, Jeff and Bryan bring you another That Blind Tech Show talking about some of the tech news with a blindness perspective. This episode has gadgets, deals, suggestions and a lot of Allison’s cool tools.

Learn about the Sonos 1, the GE Laundry box that talks, Content blockers, chargers and we almost cover everything there is to cover but that would put a lot of news people out of business. So, we kept it to about 50 minutes.

Be sure to check the links below to learn more about what the heck we were talking about. :)

]]>TBTS#9: Pigs on a Plane, Sonos 1 Have Landed, and the HomePod Flight is Canceled.

Allison, Jeff and Bryan bring you another That Blind Tech Show talking about some of the tech news with a blindness perspective. This episode has gadgets, deals, suggestions and a lot of Allison’s cool tools.

Learn about the Sonos 1, the GE Laundry box that talks, Content blockers, chargers and we almost cover everything there is to cover but that would put a lot of news people out of business. So, we kept it to about 50 minutes.

Be sure to check the links below to learn more about what the heck we were talking about. :)

]]>48:00noAllison, Jeff and Bryan bring you another That Blind Tech Show talking about some of the tech news with a blindness perspective. This episode has gadgets, deals, suggestions and a lot of Allison’s cool tools.
Learn about the Sonos 1, the GE Laundry box that talks, Content blockers, chargers and we almost cover everything there is to cover but that would put a lot of news people out of business. So, we kept it to about 50 minutes.
1337fullAira Presents Hy Cohen: Enjoying Enriched Personal Interactions with Aira #ExplorerStoriesAira Presents Hy Cohen: Enjoying Enriched Personal Interactions with Aira #ExplorerStoriesFri, 01 Dec 2017 23:49:56 +0000Aira Presents Hy Cohen: Enjoying Enriched Personal Interactions with Aira #ExplorerStories

Aira Presents, Explorer Stories, a look into the extraordinary and often ordinary stories of Aira Explorers and how they use this technology in their daily lives.

In this episode of Explorer Stories, Aira presents Hy Cohen. We hope you enjoy.

For any working parent, balancing the demands of the job with the needs to be actively involved in a home with small children can be challenging. One father of two who is a does not let blindness stand in the way of creating and sharing special moments with his first grader daughter, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Meet Hy Cohen, an Aira Explorer since July 2017 who is discovering richer visual experiences by tapping into today's fastest growing assistive community for the blind and visually impaired.

Work at a local non-profit serving California's San Joaquin County is full busy days that can include teaching several adaptive technologies classes, helping clients develop adaptive skills, or doing assessments for the Department of Rehabilitation and Veteran's Administration.

So after a busy day at the office one could think Hy probably relaxes with a quiet evening at home. Right?

With a daughter in first grade, Hy is finding ways to make daddy daughter moments memorable for them both. As most parents will readily acknowledge, most seven year old kids are----to say the least---active. And is Hy's daughter any different?As every parent knows, life with an active seven year old is not always just a walk in the park. There are those nights when a first grader's homework becomes the shared experience. And it is no different at the Cohen house where Hy is an active participant on homework night.

Having the sighted assistance his Aira Agent provides helps Hy engage and participate more fully in homework sessions, but doesn't stop there. He also uses the service to enrich their shared reading sessions, creating special moments for both dad and daughter.

Aira Presents, Explorer Stories, a look into the extraordinary and often ordinary stories of Aira Explorers and how they use this technology in their daily lives.

In this episode of Explorer Stories, Aira presents Hy Cohen. We hope you enjoy.

For any working parent, balancing the demands of the job with the needs to be actively involved in a home with small children can be challenging. One father of two who is a does not let blindness stand in the way of creating and sharing special moments with his first grader daughter, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Meet Hy Cohen, an Aira Explorer since July 2017 who is discovering richer visual experiences by tapping into today's fastest growing assistive community for the blind and visually impaired.

Work at a local non-profit serving California's San Joaquin County is full busy days that can include teaching several adaptive technologies classes, helping clients develop adaptive skills, or doing assessments for the Department of Rehabilitation and Veteran's Administration.

So after a busy day at the office one could think Hy probably relaxes with a quiet evening at home. Right?

With a daughter in first grade, Hy is finding ways to make daddy daughter moments memorable for them both. As most parents will readily acknowledge, most seven year old kids are----to say the least---active. And is Hy's daughter any different?As every parent knows, life with an active seven year old is not always just a walk in the park. There are those nights when a first grader's homework becomes the shared experience. And it is no different at the Cohen house where Hy is an active participant on homework night.

Having the sighted assistance his Aira Agent provides helps Hy engage and participate more fully in homework sessions, but doesn't stop there. He also uses the service to enrich their shared reading sessions, creating special moments for both dad and daughter.

]]>06:55noMeet Hy Cohen, an Aira Explorer since July 2017 who is discovering richer visual experiences by tapping into today's fastest growing assistive community for the blind and visually impaired. 1336fullA Passion for Science, Dr. Mona Minkara Changes Lives with STEM CurriculumA Passion for Science, Dr. Mona Minkara Changes Lives with STEM CurriculumMon, 27 Nov 2017 22:29:26 +0000Dr. Mona Minkara and her team at the University of Minnesota recently created a STEM curriculum to be utilized by a blind camp in Lebanon.

Dr. Mona Minkara is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Minnesota in the Department of Chemistry. Her goal is to one day obtain a faculty position that would give her the opportunity to teach and do research. She is also passionate about bringing STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, to those who would not have the opportunities otherwise.

Her team including John Hamill and Connor Venteicher, built a STEM curriculum for a camp in Lebanon ran by a non-profit called Empowerment through Integration.

Dr. Mona Minkara lost most of her sight at age 7 and now has less than 2 percent of vision in only one eye. Through her educational journey she has been very appreciative of those who helped her along the way and is committed to helping others.

Join us as she talks about her passion and the STEP program and how we can make changes in the low expectations that stand in our way.

]]>Dr. Mona Minkara and her team at the University of Minnesota recently created a STEM curriculum to be utilized by a blind camp in Lebanon.

Dr. Mona Minkara is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Minnesota in the Department of Chemistry. Her goal is to one day obtain a faculty position that would give her the opportunity to teach and do research. She is also passionate about bringing STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, to those who would not have the opportunities otherwise.

Her team including John Hamill and Connor Venteicher, built a STEM curriculum for a camp in Lebanon ran by a non-profit called Empowerment through Integration.

Dr. Mona Minkara lost most of her sight at age 7 and now has less than 2 percent of vision in only one eye. Through her educational journey she has been very appreciative of those who helped her along the way and is committed to helping others.

Join us as she talks about her passion and the STEP program and how we can make changes in the low expectations that stand in our way.

]]>16:17noDr. Mona Minkara is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Minnesota in the Department of Chemistry. Her goal is to one day obtain a faculty position that would give her the opportunity to teach and do research. She is also passionate about bringing STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, to those who would not have the opportunities otherwise.1335fullExperiencing Another World of Blindness - Meet Poonam Vaidya from India #RebuildEHCExperiencing Another World of Blindness - Meet Poonam Vaidya from India #RebuildEHCSat, 25 Nov 2017 18:35:42 +0000Experiencing Another World of Blindness - Meet Poonam Vaidya from India #RebuildEHC

The #RebuildEHC series is where we will be bringing awareness to the #RebuildEHC to gain support for rebuilding Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat. The largest fire in California history did not spare EHC and the spirit has not been broken. Rebuilding EHC for future generations is the goal this year and next year and that is what is going to make this time so memorable. You can support the #RebuildEHC by going to www.Lighthouse-SF.org/enchanted-hills/rebuilding/

In this Cast we are talking to Poonam Vaidya from India. She spent last summer at Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat as a counselor and shares her story about her Blindness, ambitions and the differences she has noticed between our two cultures, India and United States.

Poonam has returned to India and has hopes to someday see changes come to her culture and I am sure she will be there on the front lines fighting for the independence and education for her Blind community.

]]>Experiencing Another World of Blindness - Meet Poonam Vaidya from India #RebuildEHC

The #RebuildEHC series is where we will be bringing awareness to the #RebuildEHC to gain support for rebuilding Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat. The largest fire in California history did not spare EHC and the spirit has not been broken. Rebuilding EHC for future generations is the goal this year and next year and that is what is going to make this time so memorable. You can support the #RebuildEHC by going to www.Lighthouse-SF.org/enchanted-hills/rebuilding/

In this Cast we are talking to Poonam Vaidya from India. She spent last summer at Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat as a counselor and shares her story about her Blindness, ambitions and the differences she has noticed between our two cultures, India and United States.

Poonam has returned to India and has hopes to someday see changes come to her culture and I am sure she will be there on the front lines fighting for the independence and education for her Blind community.

]]>16:55noIn this Cast we are talking to Poonam Vaidya from India. She spent last summer at Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat as a counselor and shares her story about her Blindness, ambitions and the differences she has noticed between our two cultures, India and United States.
1334fullBrett Holly: A Million Dollars of iPads in His Driveway, WW4B, Aira and #RebuildEHCBrett Holly: A Million Dollars of iPads in His Driveway, WW4B, Aira and #RebuildEHCTue, 21 Nov 2017 23:37:56 +0000Brett Holly: A Million Dollars of iPads in His Driveway, WW4B, Aira and #RebuildEHC

The Wood Working for the Blind #WW4B Series is about Blind wood workers honing their craft or just getting interested in the art of wood working. We are also bringing awareness to the #RebuildEHC to gain support for rebuilding Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat. The largest fire in California history did not spare EHC and the spirit has not been broken. Rebuilding EHC for future generations is the goal this year and next year and that is what is going to make this time so memorable. You can support the #RebuildEHC by going to www.Lighthouse-SF.org/enchanted-hills/rebuilding/

In this WW4B podcast we talk to Brett Holly, former Apple employee, woodworker, and family guy. Brett left Apple after 21 years and was already building his 40 x 40 work shop when he lost his sight. Brett found the Lighthouse of San Fransisco’s wood working work shops and has been coming back ever event after event.

I met Brent when I was assisting master craftsman George Wurtzel at the Annual Wood Working for the Blind event at Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat. Brett and I worked on setting up jigs on various machines as he wanted to learn about making consistent cuts. After a few days of work we took a break outside the Tactile Arts Barn, of which survived the fire, and conducted this interview. Join us as Brett tells his story and gives us a glimpse of how he sees the future and how he takes on the challenges of blindness.

]]>Brett Holly: A Million Dollars of iPads in His Driveway, WW4B, Aira and #RebuildEHC

The Wood Working for the Blind #WW4B Series is about Blind wood workers honing their craft or just getting interested in the art of wood working. We are also bringing awareness to the #RebuildEHC to gain support for rebuilding Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat. The largest fire in California history did not spare EHC and the spirit has not been broken. Rebuilding EHC for future generations is the goal this year and next year and that is what is going to make this time so memorable. You can support the #RebuildEHC by going to www.Lighthouse-SF.org/enchanted-hills/rebuilding/

In this WW4B podcast we talk to Brett Holly, former Apple employee, woodworker, and family guy. Brett left Apple after 21 years and was already building his 40 x 40 work shop when he lost his sight. Brett found the Lighthouse of San Fransisco’s wood working work shops and has been coming back ever event after event.

I met Brent when I was assisting master craftsman George Wurtzel at the Annual Wood Working for the Blind event at Enchanted Hills Camp and Retreat. Brett and I worked on setting up jigs on various machines as he wanted to learn about making consistent cuts. After a few days of work we took a break outside the Tactile Arts Barn, of which survived the fire, and conducted this interview. Join us as Brett tells his story and gives us a glimpse of how he sees the future and how he takes on the challenges of blindness.

]]>18:44noIn this WW4B podcast we talk to Brett Holly, former Apple employee, woodworker, and family guy. Brett left Apple after 21 years and was already building his 40 x 40 work shop when he lost his sight. Brett found the Lighthouse of San Fransisco’s wood working work shops and has been coming back ever event after event.
1333fullJeff Bazer’s Overview of the HIMS Braille Sense Polaris, Braille Sense U2 and the Blaze EZJeff Bazer’s Overview of the HIMS Braille Sense Polaris, Braille Sense U2 and the Blaze EZTue, 21 Nov 2017 01:17:26 +0000Jeff Bazer’s Overview of the HIMS Braille Sense Polaris, Braille Sense U2 and the Blaze EZ

HIMS NorthEast sales representative Jeff Bazer gives us a overview of the Braille Sense Polaris, the Blaze EZ Reader and a comparative look at the Braille Sense U2 and the new Polaris.

We talked to Jeff Bazer back in April and it is always a good time when we meet up. Jeff is usually flying around the states from show to show so we really appreciate Jeff for taking the time to share with us and give us an overview of some of HIMS great products.

HIMS NorthEast sales representative Jeff Bazer gives us a overview of the Braille Sense Polaris, the Blaze EZ Reader and a comparative look at the Braille Sense U2 and the new Polaris.

We talked to Jeff Bazer back in April and it is always a good time when we meet up. Jeff is usually flying around the states from show to show so we really appreciate Jeff for taking the time to share with us and give us an overview of some of HIMS great products.

]]>20:23noHIMS NorthEast sales representative Jeff Bazer gives us a overview of the Braille Sense Polaris, the Blaze EZ Reader and a comparative look at the Braille Sense U2 and the new Polaris.
1332fullOne Veteran’s wish for All Blinded Veterans. IndependenceOne Veteran’s wish for All Blinded Veterans. IndependenceThu, 16 Nov 2017 01:47:30 +0000One Veteran’s wish for All Blinded Veterans. Independence

Aira Presents, Explorer Stories, a look into the extraordinary and often ordinary stories of Aira Explorers and how they use this technology in their daily lives.

Before losing his sight to Retinitis Pigmentosa fourteen years ago, Chuck Miller retired after a 28-year Army career. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys daily walks with his guide dog Troy, frequent hikes in the northeastern Florida woods and is the first veteran with blindness to be VA-certified as a sailor. He was an invited ambassador for the 2017 VA Summer Sports Clinic to mentor other veterans and as if that is not enough, he participates in the annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa. Suffice it to say he is a guy on the go.

Aira Presents, Explorer Stories, a look into the extraordinary and often ordinary stories of Aira Explorers and how they use this technology in their daily lives.

Before losing his sight to Retinitis Pigmentosa fourteen years ago, Chuck Miller retired after a 28-year Army career. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys daily walks with his guide dog Troy, frequent hikes in the northeastern Florida woods and is the first veteran with blindness to be VA-certified as a sailor. He was an invited ambassador for the 2017 VA Summer Sports Clinic to mentor other veterans and as if that is not enough, he participates in the annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa. Suffice it to say he is a guy on the go.

]]>06:33noAira Presents, Explorer Stories, a look into the extraordinary and often ordinary stories of Aira Explorers and how they use this technology in their daily lives.
Before losing his sight to Retinitis Pigmentosa fourteen years ago, Chuck Miller retired after a 28-year Army career. 1331fullA Success Story: The Transitioning Journey of Alycia HowardA Success Story: The Transitioning Journey of Alycia HowardTue, 14 Nov 2017 16:53:29 +0000A Success Story: The Transitioning Journey of Alycia Howard

Transitioning from High School to College is a journey says Alycia Howard. She has graduated from high school and attended an Adjustment To Blindness training center, The Minnesota State Academy 18+ prep program and is now attending Minneapolis Community and Technical College.

Being ready for college and knowing what you want in a college is a great start in the transition process. Ashlyn Cahill joins us to explain what State Services is for transition age students and when they begin working with them.

Alycia talks about each step along her journey and some of the events that made a big impact on her along the way.

Join us as we travel through her journey and feel her confidence as she shares her transition experience.

Transitioning from High School to College is a journey says Alycia Howard. She has graduated from high school and attended an Adjustment To Blindness training center, The Minnesota State Academy 18+ prep program and is now attending Minneapolis Community and Technical College.

Being ready for college and knowing what you want in a college is a great start in the transition process. Ashlyn Cahill joins us to explain what State Services is for transition age students and when they begin working with them.

Alycia talks about each step along her journey and some of the events that made a big impact on her along the way.

Join us as we travel through her journey and feel her confidence as she shares her transition experience.

]]>14:07noBeing ready for college and knowing what you want in a college is a great start in the transition process. Ashlyn Cahill joins us to explain what State Services is for transition age students and when they begin working with them.
Alycia talks about each step along her journey and some of the events that made a big impact on her along the way.
1330fullBlind Travel: In Search of Quiche - One Girl’s Morning OutMon, 13 Nov 2017 15:46:12 +0000Blind Travel: In Search of Quiche - One Girl’s Morning Out

Blog Post by Jessica Hodges

What's for Breakfast. This is the quintessential question of the age. What am I going to put in my mouth that will both taste good, and keep me full of energy throughout my day. I decide this morning that the answer is a mini quiche. A quiche is a pastry full of egg, cheese, and other assorted breakfast ingredients. I like mine with bacon, cheddar, mushrooms, onions, and asparagus. Sadly, I have no quiche in my house, and I don't have time to make one. I did get up super early, though, and I know of a good coffee shop on my way to college. Trouble is, I've only been their once, and I was with a friend who was driving. Moreover, my travel skills leave much to be desired. I am terrible at mental mapping, composing a map in your head of whatever spaces you walk through. My understanding of space is incredibly limited, which makes getting myself unlost complicated since I don't always understand where I am and what I've done wrong. Finally, I have a condition called auditory processing disorder, or APD, meaning that my brain doesn't accurately interpret the signals my ears send. This comes into play in the sense that when I listen to traffic, parallel, the street to my side, and perpendicular, the street in front of me, both sound angled. So, I can't line up the way most people do, by making sure that the perpendicular sounds like it's going straight by me, and the parallel sounds like it's going straight past my side. This leads to some interesting diagonal crossings. Also, I miss the traffic surges, when traffic flow switches from one direction, to the other, particularly on busier streets. This is what tells most people when to cross an intersection, and while I can do it, it can take a little longer. All of this usually results in me getting extremely lost, and taking forever to get anywhere. Still, I really want quiche, so I search for my one missing snow boot, wrap myself in a scarf I pulled from the half-done dryer, pack my scuffed leather messenger bag, and head out.

As I'm in the elevator, I load up BlindSquare. Blindsquare is a little expensive, but it's well worth it's price. It acts as a sort of narrator for the world around you, telling you what streets are coming, interesting places you’re passing, and more upon request. One of its most useful features for me is its ability to select a destination, and consistently tell you how far away you are from it, and what direction it's in. While this doesn't give you turn by turn navigation, it’s an effective way to know if you're going the wrong way, or if you're turn by turn solution is on the fritz. The other thing that blind square lets you do is launch another turn by turn GPS app. You can do this from the same screen you start tracking a destination from, and if you hit this button, it will launch the application, and start the tracking at the same time. This way, you don't have to fiddle with putting in your destination manually. Other things blind square can do include calling an Uber, and opening a transit app. Right now, I know I need to walk to get my quiche. So, I push the appropriate button. The turn by turn app I use is Google Maps, as I like the way it phrases directions, and how quickly it responds to new routes. Apple maps is another good option. Once I have both app's tracking me, I step out my buildings main doors and start walking.

The air is cold, the wind brisk, and my spirits high. The maps have given me my first step, and I follow it without much trouble. Along the road, at intersection corners, I use an app called My Way. My Way allows a user to drop points, like breadcrumbs, along a path. When you drop your last point, you can string them together into a rout, and always have a point of reference. I find this incredibly useful.

Confidently, I keep moving. The next intersection is a busy one, and all the sound is blurring together. I stand for a few minutes, and think I hear the surge going past me. I cross, and the crossing takes longer than it should. This tells me that it’s very possible I crossed diagonally, but I’ve gotten myself even more lost by assuming such things before, so I keep going.

Now, I run into a problem. The map is telling me to turn onto a side street, and the street it's telling me to turn on isn't there. Shrugging, I figure it's telling me something that's still in front of me and keep going. I'm wrong, of course. Once I've crossed, and turned onto the next intersection, my maps app says, "Proceed to the route..." This is an indication that I’ve gone the wrong direction, and it doesn't know what to tell me anymore. Blindsquare is telling me that the building is in front of me to the right, in 700 feet. The first thing I do is try to backtrack and fix the diagonal crossing mistake earlier, but when this brings me to yet another unfamiliar street, I know it's time for more action.

It's time to flag down a person. I always feel a little leery doing this, since they don't know where I'm going, and don't always give directions going the right way. But it will be much faster than me trying to figure it out on my own.

"Excuse me," I say to the passing set of boot clomps. The response shot back at me is in another language. Lovely. I keep talking, hoping that the woman speaks even a little English.

"Do you know where," ...

I'm interrupted by the woman, who has picked up my cane by the tip and started pulling it across the street. Sighing, I give up on asking her for help, and gently tug the cane out of her hand. Turning around, I quickly walk the other direction. The next person says I look like her daughter, whom she loves very much, and tries to touch my hair. She then goes on about how much she loves her family, how pretty I am, how red my hair, and how white my cane. When I ask her which direction the street I want is in, she gives no comment other than to try and touch my hair again and ask if I can get her to her children. Quickly, I tell her I must go home, and run away. The next person I stop is much friendlier, and speaks my mother tongue. I can figure out what direction I need to walk to get back on track.

I must ask several more people, who mostly gave accurate directions. But finally, after getting directions from the sixth person, I arrive at my wanted shop. Now, with quiche in hand, it's time to go to the bus stop. This is something blind square and maps usually can't help with, as bus stops aren't popular places of business. Thankfully, the shop owner knew where the bus stop I needed was, and gave me good directions. With quiche and coffee in hand, I find the stop, only having to ask two people in the process. And because I left early enough, I can still get to class both full, and on time. Sighing contentedly, I load up Move It, an app that allows me to plan routs to and from places. Since I’m not at my usual stop, I need to know both what time the bus will be coming, and if I still need the same bus. Even nicer is the fact that it can track you, and the busses, in real time, letting you know when the bus you need is coming, and telling you when it’s time to get off. This allows me to eat my breakfast, and read a book with one ear as I ride the busy, noisy bus.

In telling this story, it’s probably painfully obvious that I'm not the best traveler, and I don't pretend to be. There are a lot of people better than I am, and there are a lot of people who don't know what a white cane or guide dog is, let alone how to use one. But travel is what you make of it. And you don't have to be good, to get somewhere. This is something I struggle to remember in my daily life, but it is, perhaps, more important than anything any class will teach...except maybe how to make a quiche so you don't have to go out at all. It doesn't matter if you can independently map out a city, or struggle with the confines of the school you've been going to for the last six months, I promise, it's not impossible. So, happy travels! May you have better luck than I at finding people who speak your language, if you need them. Oh, and here’s a recipe for my favorite quiche, if you’re hungry!

What's for Breakfast. This is the quintessential question of the age. What am I going to put in my mouth that will both taste good, and keep me full of energy throughout my day. I decide this morning that the answer is a mini quiche. A quiche is a pastry full of egg, cheese, and other assorted breakfast ingredients. I like mine with bacon, cheddar, mushrooms, onions, and asparagus. Sadly, I have no quiche in my house, and I don't have time to make one. I did get up super early, though, and I know of a good coffee shop on my way to college. Trouble is, I've only been their once, and I was with a friend who was driving. Moreover, my travel skills leave much to be desired. I am terrible at mental mapping, composing a map in your head of whatever spaces you walk through. My understanding of space is incredibly limited, which makes getting myself unlost complicated since I don't always understand where I am and what I've done wrong. Finally, I have a condition called auditory processing disorder, or APD, meaning that my brain doesn't accurately interpret the signals my ears send. This comes into play in the sense that when I listen to traffic, parallel, the street to my side, and perpendicular, the street in front of me, both sound angled. So, I can't line up the way most people do, by making sure that the perpendicular sounds like it's going straight by me, and the parallel sounds like it's going straight past my side. This leads to some interesting diagonal crossings. Also, I miss the traffic surges, when traffic flow switches from one direction, to the other, particularly on busier streets. This is what tells most people when to cross an intersection, and while I can do it, it can take a little longer. All of this usually results in me getting extremely lost, and taking forever to get anywhere. Still, I really want quiche, so I search for my one missing snow boot, wrap myself in a scarf I pulled from the half-done dryer, pack my scuffed leather messenger bag, and head out.

As I'm in the elevator, I load up BlindSquare. Blindsquare is a little expensive, but it's well worth it's price. It acts as a sort of narrator for the world around you, telling you what streets are coming, interesting places you’re passing, and more upon request. One of its most useful features for me is its ability to select a destination, and consistently tell you how far away you are from it, and what direction it's in. While this doesn't give you turn by turn navigation, it’s an effective way to know if you're going the wrong way, or if you're turn by turn solution is on the fritz. The other thing that blind square lets you do is launch another turn by turn GPS app. You can do this from the same screen you start tracking a destination from, and if you hit this button, it will launch the application, and start the tracking at the same time. This way, you don't have to fiddle with putting in your destination manually. Other things blind square can do include calling an Uber, and opening a transit app. Right now, I know I need to walk to get my quiche. So, I push the appropriate button. The turn by turn app I use is Google Maps, as I like the way it phrases directions, and how quickly it responds to new routes. Apple maps is another good option. Once I have both app's tracking me, I step out my buildings main doors and start walking.

The air is cold, the wind brisk, and my spirits high. The maps have given me my first step, and I follow it without much trouble. Along the road, at intersection corners, I use an app called My Way. My Way allows a user to drop points, like breadcrumbs, along a path. When you drop your last point, you can string them together into a rout, and always have a point of reference. I find this incredibly useful.

Confidently, I keep moving. The next intersection is a busy one, and all the sound is blurring together. I stand for a few minutes, and think I hear the surge going past me. I cross, and the crossing takes longer than it should. This tells me that it’s very possible I crossed diagonally, but I’ve gotten myself even more lost by assuming such things before, so I keep going.

Now, I run into a problem. The map is telling me to turn onto a side street, and the street it's telling me to turn on isn't there. Shrugging, I figure it's telling me something that's still in front of me and keep going. I'm wrong, of course. Once I've crossed, and turned onto the next intersection, my maps app says, "Proceed to the route..." This is an indication that I’ve gone the wrong direction, and it doesn't know what to tell me anymore. Blindsquare is telling me that the building is in front of me to the right, in 700 feet. The first thing I do is try to backtrack and fix the diagonal crossing mistake earlier, but when this brings me to yet another unfamiliar street, I know it's time for more action.

It's time to flag down a person. I always feel a little leery doing this, since they don't know where I'm going, and don't always give directions going the right way. But it will be much faster than me trying to figure it out on my own.

"Excuse me," I say to the passing set of boot clomps. The response shot back at me is in another language. Lovely. I keep talking, hoping that the woman speaks even a little English.

"Do you know where," ...

I'm interrupted by the woman, who has picked up my cane by the tip and started pulling it across the street. Sighing, I give up on asking her for help, and gently tug the cane out of her hand. Turning around, I quickly walk the other direction. The next person says I look like her daughter, whom she loves very much, and tries to touch my hair. She then goes on about how much she loves her family, how pretty I am, how red my hair, and how white my cane. When I ask her which direction the street I want is in, she gives no comment other than to try and touch my hair again and ask if I can get her to her children. Quickly, I tell her I must go home, and run away. The next person I stop is much friendlier, and speaks my mother tongue. I can figure out what direction I need to walk to get back on track.

I must ask several more people, who mostly gave accurate directions. But finally, after getting directions from the sixth person, I arrive at my wanted shop. Now, with quiche in hand, it's time to go to the bus stop. This is something blind square and maps usually can't help with, as bus stops aren't popular places of business. Thankfully, the shop owner knew where the bus stop I needed was, and gave me good directions. With quiche and coffee in hand, I find the stop, only having to ask two people in the process. And because I left early enough, I can still get to class both full, and on time. Sighing contentedly, I load up Move It, an app that allows me to plan routs to and from places. Since I’m not at my usual stop, I need to know both what time the bus will be coming, and if I still need the same bus. Even nicer is the fact that it can track you, and the busses, in real time, letting you know when the bus you need is coming, and telling you when it’s time to get off. This allows me to eat my breakfast, and read a book with one ear as I ride the busy, noisy bus.

In telling this story, it’s probably painfully obvious that I'm not the best traveler, and I don't pretend to be. There are a lot of people better than I am, and there are a lot of people who don't know what a white cane or guide dog is, let alone how to use one. But travel is what you make of it. And you don't have to be good, to get somewhere. This is something I struggle to remember in my daily life, but it is, perhaps, more important than anything any class will teach...except maybe how to make a quiche so you don't have to go out at all. It doesn't matter if you can independently map out a city, or struggle with the confines of the school you've been going to for the last six months, I promise, it's not impossible. So, happy travels! May you have better luck than I at finding people who speak your language, if you need them. Oh, and here’s a recipe for my favorite quiche, if you’re hungry!

]]>fullWorld Champion Lex Gillette: No Need for Sight When You Have a VisionWorld Champion Lex Gillette: No Need for Sight When You Have a VisionTue, 07 Nov 2017 01:05:02 +0000World Champion Lex Gillette: No Need for Sight When You Have a Vision ™

AT&T and Aira Present: Lex Gillette – World Record holder, 4 time World Champion, 4 time medalists, Ted XTalk Speaker, Mentor , and much more.

Lex Gillette is an American track and field athlete who has proved to the world that there are absolutely no excuses. Retina detachments in both eyes have left him with the challenge of living life with no sight. Fortunately for Lex, once he lost his sight, he gained a vision.

CONGRATULATIONS to Lex Gillette for winning gold in the long jump at the 2017 Para Athletics World Championships. This marks the third consecutive world champion title in the event for Gillette and it is a phenomenal way to start the four-year journey that leads to Tokyo 2020.

Join the Blind Abilities team, Pete Lane and Jeff Thompson, as they talk to Lex Gillette and discover what drives him to achieve such a high level of success.

]]>World Champion Lex Gillette: No Need for Sight When You Have a Vision ™

AT&T and Aira Present: Lex Gillette – World Record holder, 4 time World Champion, 4 time medalists, Ted XTalk Speaker, Mentor , and much more.

Lex Gillette is an American track and field athlete who has proved to the world that there are absolutely no excuses. Retina detachments in both eyes have left him with the challenge of living life with no sight. Fortunately for Lex, once he lost his sight, he gained a vision.

CONGRATULATIONS to Lex Gillette for winning gold in the long jump at the 2017 Para Athletics World Championships. This marks the third consecutive world champion title in the event for Gillette and it is a phenomenal way to start the four-year journey that leads to Tokyo 2020.

Join the Blind Abilities team, Pete Lane and Jeff Thompson, as they talk to Lex Gillette and discover what drives him to achieve such a high level of success.

]]>42:02noAT&T and Aira Present: Lex Gillette – World Record holder, 4 time World Champion, 4 time medalists, Ted XTalk Speaker, Mentor , and much more.
1329fullA Day of Words: The Books, and EReaders, That Make Up One College Girl’s DayTue, 31 Oct 2017 23:30:56 +0000A Day of Words: The Books, and EReaders, That Make Up One College Girl’s Day

Monday. It's 8:00, AM, again. I've overslept. Stumbling, I cram my feet into the wrong shoes, yank a brush through my hair, pack and grab my beat-up messenger bag, shove a bagel in my teeth for safe keeping, and start running for the bus. It pulls up right as I whack my head on the bus sign, and I almost drop my bagel, franticly fishing my pass from the black hole that is my bag. With card, cane, and bagel still somehow in hand, I step onto the bus, feeling flustered. I scan my card at the scanner, and then take a seat. Now, I can relax. The bus ride is long enough that I can put on some soft, acoustic music, pop in one ear bud, and pull out my textbooks.

I love learning. There's something about other people’s thoughts, their ideas, words, and processes, that makes me almost feel like I know the writer, like I've experienced something new that isn't mine. So, I welcome every chance to eat a book. True, it's not my preferred science fiction, fantasy, or cutting-edge thriller, but it's still words, still knowledge. Since I'm still slightly flustered from my manic Monday morning, I decide to start with poetry. Poetry is my safe place, the place where I can go to be myself. It's the place where I always seem to understand, and connect with, the soul of the writer, and with myself, on a personal level. Learning Ally is a service that has human narrated texts. They also have the most specific page navigation and illustration descriptions. Many state services, such as the State Services for the Blind in Minnesota, will also have options to record books you can’t find, and send you digital files you can download and open. However, I tend to like texts with computer voices, when I don’t have a lot of random page flipping to do. So, I pull out my phone, keeping my hands inside my bag so as not to flash my phone on the bus full of random strangers, and launch VoiceDream reader, my application of choice for doing any mobile reading when I need to interact with the text. The developer has done a fabulous job at making not only navigation within books, but text interactions themselves a breeze.

Every tool most people have in a standard eReader is there, from searches, to different colored highlighting, to complex book navigation. The fact that it supports so many formats for opening both text and audio books/documents makes it an easy app to reach for. Today, I launch my poetry book, and start reading with the voice I've downloaded. This way, the app's curser will follow each word as its read. I know that I'm going to need to stop the book and take notes, so I don't want to fiddle with finding the word on my own. When I get to the poems my instructor has told us to annotate, I stop the automatic reading, and start using VoiceDream's curser movement and selecting tools to find and select pieces of the text. Once I have the text selected that I need, I can write notes on that text snip using braille screen input, a tool that is built into every iPhone for typing in braille on a touch screen. This allows me to type much quicker than I would be able to otherwise. I continue annotating poetry and am just about to start on my public speaking text when I hear the stop before mine, and start paying attention to the stops.

After I'm off the bus, with one hand in my pocket, since I of course forgot my gloves, I walk to class, sit down, and get out my laptop. It starts with a quiet thrum, and my headset beeps as it connects itself. Smiling, I pull up QRead, a blind friendly eReader. I usually use QRead when I'm at the computer because there’s no limit to how many books can be loaded. It has a robust system for table of contents, bookmarks, and searches, things that are vital when I need to get through a piece of text quickly. It is very light weight and doesn't ever seem to lag my computer, even when I've had twelve books in it at once. Switching between books is as simple as control tab, and control shift tab, so I can switch at a moment’s notice. The text is put in such a way that it is easy to copy, paste, and navigate within the text in the same way that I already use the screen reader on my computer, so I don't have to fight with an unfamiliar system. I can read it in chunks, all at once, by words, or any other way it's possible to read any other document in a word processor. Even better, QRead has direct integration with bookshare.org, an organization dedicated to getting text to the blind and dyslexic. This is where I probably get three fourths of my pleasure reading, and almost all my texts from. If you are a student in the US, Bookshare is free, otherwise it's available for a small yearly fee. QRead can also interact in very limited ways with popular book social networking cite GoodReads, being able to update your progress on a book, and submit reviews. But now is not the time for such things. It's time for class. I've already loaded my logic textbook, and the instructors powerpoint for the day. I've bookmarked the relevant sections of the book already, so I open the bookmarks menu, find the section, load up my work in my word processor, and pop sunflower seeds from my bag to munch on until class starts.

As I'm leaving class, I am lucky to read an email telling me my next class has been canceled, and breathe a sigh of relief. I really need to brush up on my anthropology before I start writing the end of term paper. Moreover, I did well in the last class, answering most of the tough questions correctly. I deserve a reward! With a spring in my step, I go over to the coffee shop in my college lobby. My spring is gone by the time I get there since I got lost for twenty minutes along the way, but comes back once I plunk down in a comfy corner chair with a peppermint mocha, a strawberry Danish, and my anthropology text. This time, I need to use Kindle, because that's where I've rented my book from. Though you can use Kindle to load all kinds of documents, I've gotten something from their library. With textbooks, prices can be high. Some electronic stores allow you to rent texts for less than outright buying them. This makes for a practical and cost-effective solution, so I've done that for my anthropology text. Now, I need to read it. I could use my phone, but I left my computer running in my bag, so I put my coffee down on the nearby table and open my laptop. Kindle on the computer side of things is a fairly newcomer to the scene of accessible eReaders. Now, with NVDA, I can do everything a cited person can. Kindle, just like the others I've used throughout the day, is a robust reading system, including ways to search, navigate, highlight, and annotate. It also has some features, depending on the text, that others don't, such as the ability to look up definitions of words, share popular highlights of books, suggest a curetted list of things you'd want to read, and more. With Kindle, you can also copy paste the text, and navigate through the book with already familiar screen reader commands. When my coffee is gone, and my fingers are tired from banging out anthropology journal prompt ideas, I go to my third class. As with the first, QRead serves me faithfully. I am easily able to keep up with the teacher, skim the text, and take notes when needed.

At the end of the day, I'm tired of studying. I do love words, and knowledge, but a girl’s got to have fun, and relax, sometime, right? I contemplate using VoiceDream, as I do have some pleasure reading in there, both in audio, and in text form, but I'm not feeling like either of those books right now, too intense. Usually, I’d turn to Overdrive next, an app that allows you to rent audio and text books from the local library, but right now, there’s nothing I’d like to read. This is a useful app, however, as it allows you to get high quality narrated books for free, provided you read them in time. But that app has nothing for me, so, this time, when I get on the bus, I load up Bard. Bard, which stands for braille and Audio Reading Download, is a service for the blind through the National Library Service. With their iPhone app, I can download books both in audio, and in braille to be read with a braille display. I generally prefer to read in audio because I can multitask, read faster, and in the case of fiction, put voices to characters in my head, something I don't do on my own. I use more Braille when I'm reading something complex, with lots of interesting spelling. Because I am reading Bard in audio, I don't have as fine a control, so I use Bard less for textbooks, and more for pleasure reading. And pleasure reading suits me just fine now. I pull up my urban fantasy novel, pop in an earbud, and drift home on griffenback above a sparkling city that is blessedly far from home.

When I must put my feet on the ground, however, I'm glad to come down. After tromping into the wind down the grey, concrete streets full of bustle and noise, I nestle myself behind my locked door, curl into the warmth of my kitchen, and heat up some hot cocoa from scratch, because it's never too early for hot cocoa! Drinks made, food attended to, and bag unpacked, I do homework and talk to some people for a while. When I'm done, it's time for my favorite part of the day.

I reach for my phone and pull up audible. Audible can be a bit expensive, because the narrators are professional and mainstream. They make it an art to bring the page to life for the listener, making them a popular choice for audiobooks. They are also mostly used for pleasure reading, as navigation is limited to chapters and thirty second increments. Right now, however, I don't care. I don't get books from them very often, so when I do, I want them to be something good and delicious for me to sink my teeth into.

Today is no exception, a fantasy about a young girl who shatters a sword, finds a dragon, and...well...I’ll let you figure out the rest. I'm going to go to sleep with the exceptional narrator gently reading in one ear, lulling me off. But before I go, I hope this little story of a day has helped you with various kinds of reading applications, and the contexts they can be used in. There are more tools for reading than I could ever give in one day, so I'm sorry if I left out your favorite, or didn't give you what you need. I'll tell you about the others a different day, along with more details on how to use the ones I've mentioned here, but for now, I hope this at least gives you something good to read!

Monday. It's 8:00, AM, again. I've overslept. Stumbling, I cram my feet into the wrong shoes, yank a brush through my hair, pack and grab my beat-up messenger bag, shove a bagel in my teeth for safe keeping, and start running for the bus. It pulls up right as I whack my head on the bus sign, and I almost drop my bagel, franticly fishing my pass from the black hole that is my bag. With card, cane, and bagel still somehow in hand, I step onto the bus, feeling flustered. I scan my card at the scanner, and then take a seat. Now, I can relax. The bus ride is long enough that I can put on some soft, acoustic music, pop in one ear bud, and pull out my textbooks.

I love learning. There's something about other people’s thoughts, their ideas, words, and processes, that makes me almost feel like I know the writer, like I've experienced something new that isn't mine. So, I welcome every chance to eat a book. True, it's not my preferred science fiction, fantasy, or cutting-edge thriller, but it's still words, still knowledge. Since I'm still slightly flustered from my manic Monday morning, I decide to start with poetry. Poetry is my safe place, the place where I can go to be myself. It's the place where I always seem to understand, and connect with, the soul of the writer, and with myself, on a personal level. Learning Ally is a service that has human narrated texts. They also have the most specific page navigation and illustration descriptions. Many state services, such as the State Services for the Blind in Minnesota, will also have options to record books you can’t find, and send you digital files you can download and open. However, I tend to like texts with computer voices, when I don’t have a lot of random page flipping to do. So, I pull out my phone, keeping my hands inside my bag so as not to flash my phone on the bus full of random strangers, and launch VoiceDream reader, my application of choice for doing any mobile reading when I need to interact with the text. The developer has done a fabulous job at making not only navigation within books, but text interactions themselves a breeze.

Every tool most people have in a standard eReader is there, from searches, to different colored highlighting, to complex book navigation. The fact that it supports so many formats for opening both text and audio books/documents makes it an easy app to reach for. Today, I launch my poetry book, and start reading with the voice I've downloaded. This way, the app's curser will follow each word as its read. I know that I'm going to need to stop the book and take notes, so I don't want to fiddle with finding the word on my own. When I get to the poems my instructor has told us to annotate, I stop the automatic reading, and start using VoiceDream's curser movement and selecting tools to find and select pieces of the text. Once I have the text selected that I need, I can write notes on that text snip using braille screen input, a tool that is built into every iPhone for typing in braille on a touch screen. This allows me to type much quicker than I would be able to otherwise. I continue annotating poetry and am just about to start on my public speaking text when I hear the stop before mine, and start paying attention to the stops.

After I'm off the bus, with one hand in my pocket, since I of course forgot my gloves, I walk to class, sit down, and get out my laptop. It starts with a quiet thrum, and my headset beeps as it connects itself. Smiling, I pull up QRead, a blind friendly eReader. I usually use QRead when I'm at the computer because there’s no limit to how many books can be loaded. It has a robust system for table of contents, bookmarks, and searches, things that are vital when I need to get through a piece of text quickly. It is very light weight and doesn't ever seem to lag my computer, even when I've had twelve books in it at once. Switching between books is as simple as control tab, and control shift tab, so I can switch at a moment’s notice. The text is put in such a way that it is easy to copy, paste, and navigate within the text in the same way that I already use the screen reader on my computer, so I don't have to fight with an unfamiliar system. I can read it in chunks, all at once, by words, or any other way it's possible to read any other document in a word processor. Even better, QRead has direct integration with bookshare.org, an organization dedicated to getting text to the blind and dyslexic. This is where I probably get three fourths of my pleasure reading, and almost all my texts from. If you are a student in the US, Bookshare is free, otherwise it's available for a small yearly fee. QRead can also interact in very limited ways with popular book social networking cite GoodReads, being able to update your progress on a book, and submit reviews. But now is not the time for such things. It's time for class. I've already loaded my logic textbook, and the instructors powerpoint for the day. I've bookmarked the relevant sections of the book already, so I open the bookmarks menu, find the section, load up my work in my word processor, and pop sunflower seeds from my bag to munch on until class starts.

As I'm leaving class, I am lucky to read an email telling me my next class has been canceled, and breathe a sigh of relief. I really need to brush up on my anthropology before I start writing the end of term paper. Moreover, I did well in the last class, answering most of the tough questions correctly. I deserve a reward! With a spring in my step, I go over to the coffee shop in my college lobby. My spring is gone by the time I get there since I got lost for twenty minutes along the way, but comes back once I plunk down in a comfy corner chair with a peppermint mocha, a strawberry Danish, and my anthropology text. This time, I need to use Kindle, because that's where I've rented my book from. Though you can use Kindle to load all kinds of documents, I've gotten something from their library. With textbooks, prices can be high. Some electronic stores allow you to rent texts for less than outright buying them. This makes for a practical and cost-effective solution, so I've done that for my anthropology text. Now, I need to read it. I could use my phone, but I left my computer running in my bag, so I put my coffee down on the nearby table and open my laptop. Kindle on the computer side of things is a fairly newcomer to the scene of accessible eReaders. Now, with NVDA, I can do everything a cited person can. Kindle, just like the others I've used throughout the day, is a robust reading system, including ways to search, navigate, highlight, and annotate. It also has some features, depending on the text, that others don't, such as the ability to look up definitions of words, share popular highlights of books, suggest a curetted list of things you'd want to read, and more. With Kindle, you can also copy paste the text, and navigate through the book with already familiar screen reader commands. When my coffee is gone, and my fingers are tired from banging out anthropology journal prompt ideas, I go to my third class. As with the first, QRead serves me faithfully. I am easily able to keep up with the teacher, skim the text, and take notes when needed.

At the end of the day, I'm tired of studying. I do love words, and knowledge, but a girl’s got to have fun, and relax, sometime, right? I contemplate using VoiceDream, as I do have some pleasure reading in there, both in audio, and in text form, but I'm not feeling like either of those books right now, too intense. Usually, I’d turn to Overdrive next, an app that allows you to rent audio and text books from the local library, but right now, there’s nothing I’d like to read. This is a useful app, however, as it allows you to get high quality narrated books for free, provided you read them in time. But that app has nothing for me, so, this time, when I get on the bus, I load up Bard. Bard, which stands for braille and Audio Reading Download, is a service for the blind through the National Library Service. With their iPhone app, I can download books both in audio, and in braille to be read with a braille display. I generally prefer to read in audio because I can multitask, read faster, and in the case of fiction, put voices to characters in my head, something I don't do on my own. I use more Braille when I'm reading something complex, with lots of interesting spelling. Because I am reading Bard in audio, I don't have as fine a control, so I use Bard less for textbooks, and more for pleasure reading. And pleasure reading suits me just fine now. I pull up my urban fantasy novel, pop in an earbud, and drift home on griffenback above a sparkling city that is blessedly far from home.

When I must put my feet on the ground, however, I'm glad to come down. After tromping into the wind down the grey, concrete streets full of bustle and noise, I nestle myself behind my locked door, curl into the warmth of my kitchen, and heat up some hot cocoa from scratch, because it's never too early for hot cocoa! Drinks made, food attended to, and bag unpacked, I do homework and talk to some people for a while. When I'm done, it's time for my favorite part of the day.

I reach for my phone and pull up audible. Audible can be a bit expensive, because the narrators are professional and mainstream. They make it an art to bring the page to life for the listener, making them a popular choice for audiobooks. They are also mostly used for pleasure reading, as navigation is limited to chapters and thirty second increments. Right now, however, I don't care. I don't get books from them very often, so when I do, I want them to be something good and delicious for me to sink my teeth into.

Today is no exception, a fantasy about a young girl who shatters a sword, finds a dragon, and...well...I’ll let you figure out the rest. I'm going to go to sleep with the exceptional narrator gently reading in one ear, lulling me off. But before I go, I hope this little story of a day has helped you with various kinds of reading applications, and the contexts they can be used in. There are more tools for reading than I could ever give in one day, so I'm sorry if I left out your favorite, or didn't give you what you need. I'll tell you about the others a different day, along with more details on how to use the ones I've mentioned here, but for now, I hope this at least gives you something good to read!

In this SSB Success Story Leah Martinson talks about how she navigated the transition from high school to college and to the workplace. How the services at SSB assisted her decision making and helped support her goal of owning her own business as an Integrative Health Coach.

Leah graduated high school and became a Massage Therapist and realized that she wanted more, and she pursued her college career at the University of Minnesota and became a Certified Health Coach and now provides services to students within the very same program. Leah also works with an organization and balances her time between work and home.

Becoming a mom has changed her life and Leah is always looking for that creative solution as her business she says is always going to be a work in progress.

Leah talks about how she coped with being a bit different from her peers in high school and how she now understands today what she did not understand back then.

Leah writes a blog called Blurry Mom which focuses on mom’s and children. A place to go for answers and a bit of some good writing.

Join Leah Martinson as she talks about her transition years and how she is making it happen today.

In this SSB Success Story Leah Martinson talks about how she navigated the transition from high school to college and to the workplace. How the services at SSB assisted her decision making and helped support her goal of owning her own business as an Integrative Health Coach.

Leah graduated high school and became a Massage Therapist and realized that she wanted more, and she pursued her college career at the University of Minnesota and became a Certified Health Coach and now provides services to students within the very same program. Leah also works with an organization and balances her time between work and home.

Becoming a mom has changed her life and Leah is always looking for that creative solution as her business she says is always going to be a work in progress.

Leah talks about how she coped with being a bit different from her peers in high school and how she now understands today what she did not understand back then.

Leah writes a blog called Blurry Mom which focuses on mom’s and children. A place to go for answers and a bit of some good writing.

Join Leah Martinson as she talks about her transition years and how she is making it happen today.

]]>21:17noIn this SSB Success Story Leah Martinson talks about how she navigated the transition from high school to college and to the workplace. How the services at SSB assisted her decision making and helped support her goal of owning her own business as an Integrative Health Coach.1328fullThat Blind Tech Show: Twifferrific on the Mac and Downcast is Back andSonos Gets 1 BiggerThat Blind Tech Show: Twifferrific on the Mac and Downcast is Back andSonos Gets 1 BiggerThu, 26 Oct 2017 20:25:14 +0000That Blind Tech Show: Twifferrific on the Mac and Downcast is Back andSonos Gets 1 Bigger

That Blind Tech Show Rolls Again. Bryan brings Allison and Jeff back to the sho to talk about some of the latest Tech news, gidgets and gadgets and the latest from Sonos. We are proud to announce that Twitterrific for the Mac is Back, Downcast just got an update and AOL Messenger is no longer.

Jeff gives us an update on the fire that hit Enchanted Hills Camp above Napa, CA and how we can all contribute and support #RebuildEHC.

Be sure to check the links below to learn more about what the heck we were talking about. :)

]]>That Blind Tech Show: Twifferrific on the Mac and Downcast is Back andSonos Gets 1 Bigger

That Blind Tech Show Rolls Again. Bryan brings Allison and Jeff back to the sho to talk about some of the latest Tech news, gidgets and gadgets and the latest from Sonos. We are proud to announce that Twitterrific for the Mac is Back, Downcast just got an update and AOL Messenger is no longer.

Jeff gives us an update on the fire that hit Enchanted Hills Camp above Napa, CA and how we can all contribute and support #RebuildEHC.

Be sure to check the links below to learn more about what the heck we were talking about. :)

]]>01:00:19noThat Blind Tech Show Rolls Again. Bryan brings Allison and Jeff back to the sho to talk about some of the latest Tech news, gidgets and gadgets and the latest from Sonos1327fullRebuilding Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind #RebuildEHCMon, 23 Oct 2017 15:02:20 +0000Rebuilding Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind #RebuildEHC

Jeff Thompson

BlindAbilities Staff

I have had the pleasure of being involved with Enchanted Hills Camp in the past and plan on being involved in the future. However, presently we need more people to be involved right now as Enchanted Hills Camp is in need of your support and donations to help put EHC back into operations as normal. All the work and effort for fire abatement has paid off as nearly all the structures that were re-roofed and all the efforts over the last 7 years of clearing brush, tree management and the construction of fire roads has protected some of the most essential buildings and forests. But there has been so much lost to this latest fire.

the latest report, posted below is from The Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Click on that link and you will find an electronic form to submit your donation. See below for other means of donating and giving your support.

Just a couple of months ago I had the honor of staying at EHC for 15 days and assisting George Wurtzel in teaching 2 Wood Working for the Blind workshops. With the camp filled upon my early arrival, we stayed in the Assistant Director's cabin in lower camp and I was saddened to hear the fire took that cabin as well as most the cabins in lower camp.

The Redwood Grove amphitheater's main stage was lost as well. These areas may seem like just locations but if you had ever visited EHc and did the walk down to the amp a theater, U2 would feel such a great loss as I do. There is no place like this. No place at all.

And with your support and donations, let the rebuild begin.

My heart goes out to the staff members who lost all their belongings and homes to the fire. In my stays at EHC, I have found that there exist a staff that is second to none and through your support and donations the EHC on-site staff will be that much closer to bringing back the EHC environment that we all have come to enjoy.

Yes, the Tactile Art Barn still stands and another Woodworking event will come about but until the rebuild begins and the public is allowed back in, there is so much we all can do to ensure EHC starts scheduling events and creating opportunities. Please help support Rebuild EHC.

Thanks.

Jeff Thompson

Here is a copy of the latest from Enchanted hills Camp.

Image of LightHouse Logo

Image description: Two firefighters survey a freshly burnt area in front of the untouched cook’s cabin for remaining hot spots.Tim and Tony stand in the dirt road, both stroking their chins.

Dear Extended LightHouse Family,

This Friday afternoon we want to conclude the week with news about Enchanted Hills Camp, a few recent photographs, and some emerging stories about how some integral parts of camp survived.

As recently as last night the camp still had numerous smoldering hot spots, but the early morning rains helped enormously to limit the remaining fire danger. Mt. Veeder Road is still closed to all but first responders, an unprecedented 12 days after the fire. We’re hoping that normal Mt. Veeder Road access will be granted early next week. We’re also hoping that the hundreds of PG&E crews will get our neighbors’ electricity up and running again. However, because of the massive burn of our camp wide electrical wiring, it will be months before regular electricity lights any major camp buildings.

On Wednesday our intrepid LightHouse Producer, Camilla Sterne was able to accompany Camp Director Tony Fletcher and our dauntless contractor Tim Gregory for a visual inspection of how camp has fared. The results are alarming but hint at how we’ll rebuild in the future. The strange randomness of fire and the hard work of this week’s firefight can be seen throughout the property.

Our new Tactile Art Barn and Woodworking Studio escaped unscathed, but immediately adjacent to it the Porta Potty was reduced to dust. A thicket of vegetation burned black right up to the Art Barn but miraculously the barn survived, likely with the help of the dedicated Cal Fire crews who have been on-site for days keeping advancing flames at bay.

Image description: Enchanted Hills Camp Director Tony Fletcher and contractor Tim Gregory stand in front of the unscathed Art Barn speaking with two firefighters. Flames came just feet from the Art Barn, leaving ash and burn along the embankment around the structure and reducing the portapotty to a tidy circle of white ash.

Image description: Tim and Tony stand facing a pile of fire-scarred corrugated metal roofing, chairs and shelves that were once part of the garage and shed in upper camp. A single propane tank peeks out of the rubble — miraculously still intact.

Our other new space, the Redwood Grove Theater, is yet another contrast study, with the lovely, accessible stage built by our Napa Kiwanis partners completely destroyed, while many of the hand-carved redwood benches standing proudly to host performances for years to come. For this too, we have our firefighters to thank. As our team entered the beautiful grove, the large redwood trees still offering green needles, they spied a note tacked on the grove’s sign. In the midst of the fire, engine company #98 from Los Angeles Fire Department left us a note at the theater’s threshold: “We saved this, wish we could have saved more.”

There were other victories among the devastation. The Friday before the fire started on Sunday we had just finished re-roofing our entire dining hall with a Class A fire retardant new roof, the first in nearly 40 years. Our team clambered up on the roof to see the new roof unscathed, though with hundreds of small embers which harmlessly burned themselves out on it, surely saving camp’s largest and most valuable structure.

Image description:A note on the back of the partially charred Redwood Grove sign reads: “LAFD Engine 98. We saved this, wish we could have saved more.”

But our team’s visit to camp was a mix of victories and heartbreaking losses. In the accompanying photographs, readers can see the scene of devastation throughout camp. Beyond the loss of all 10 Lower Camp cabins, we’ve discovered that we lost the bridge and most of the benches in the Creekside Lower Chapel, as well as the Kiva bridge. We lost both boys’ and girls’ bathrooms, the massive roller rink building, the new decking, shade structure and bathhouse around our large swimming pool. Our treehouse is gone, as is the Assistant Director’s cabin and all of the structures in the sensory area. Some of our new water lines are destroyed and every standing building is full of choking smoke, contaminating bedding, carpet, ceiling and furniture.

The most aching physical loss may be the large staff house, which burned to rubble, destroying the home of five camp staff and all of their personal possessions. Our camp staff remain, frankly, stunned by their sudden dislocation. The LightHouse is working with them to ensure a smooth transition into new housing as they rebuild their lives away from the property they helped make beautiful.

Image description: The road leading to lower camp is strewn with ash and wood. A hotspot in the foreground smokes in the light while a propane tank sits in the midst of charred logs and a snow-like layer of ash.

Image description: Tim Gregory walks down the hill toward the pool. In front of him lies what’s left of the bath house: a charred wooden frame and a swath of limp metal roofing.

Image description: Firefighters collect water from the pool to put out lingering hot spots and patches of fire on Enchanted Hill property.

What our advisors are telling us is that it will be many months before camp will be functional enough to allow our staff to go about the work of rebuilding. Hundreds of precarious burned trees, downed power lines, and toxic building remains all need to be addressed, as well as reconstruction of the electrical, water and waste infrastructure to make camp habitable. For the immediate future, we mustn’t allow the public to visit camp for any reason; our entrance road will be closed and contractors will be charged to turn away all trespassers. Please, for the safety of camp reconstruction, do not make plans to visit until we issue our first community invitation, likely no sooner than summer 2018.

What we need now is creative ideas, heartfelt testimonials and donations. While the cleanup work is a heavy lift, we have seasoned professionals to rely upon, with deep roots in Napa. Once we’ve made camp safe, reinstated electrical wiring, refreshed our water supply and developed a plan for building back, then we will need volunteers: to clean, construct, reforest, and a thousand other preparatory tasks to rebuild lower camp stronger and better than ever.

If you’re moved by Camilla Sterne’s photographs of camp and have the desire and means to help today, the LightHouse has established simple, secure ways to give directly to Enchanted Hills camp, including a new option to give by text message.

Just in the last few days, our friends and neighbors and you have already begun the rebuilding process with us with your thoughtful words and gifts. These contributions will pay for reconstruction, restaffing, and rebuilding not only the structures in Napa, but the spirit of Enchanted Hills that will spring from them in the years to come. For that, we couldn’t be more grateful.

The LightHouse is committed to keeping the community up to date with these periodic updates about our camp and its rebuilding. It is so very empowering to be supported by a community as kind and engaged as ours.

In deep appreciation,

Bryan Bashin Signature

Bryan Bashin

CEO

]]>Rebuilding Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind #RebuildEHC

Jeff Thompson

BlindAbilities Staff

I have had the pleasure of being involved with Enchanted Hills Camp in the past and plan on being involved in the future. However, presently we need more people to be involved right now as Enchanted Hills Camp is in need of your support and donations to help put EHC back into operations as normal. All the work and effort for fire abatement has paid off as nearly all the structures that were re-roofed and all the efforts over the last 7 years of clearing brush, tree management and the construction of fire roads has protected some of the most essential buildings and forests. But there has been so much lost to this latest fire.

the latest report, posted below is from The Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Click on that link and you will find an electronic form to submit your donation. See below for other means of donating and giving your support.

Just a couple of months ago I had the honor of staying at EHC for 15 days and assisting George Wurtzel in teaching 2 Wood Working for the Blind workshops. With the camp filled upon my early arrival, we stayed in the Assistant Director's cabin in lower camp and I was saddened to hear the fire took that cabin as well as most the cabins in lower camp.

The Redwood Grove amphitheater's main stage was lost as well. These areas may seem like just locations but if you had ever visited EHc and did the walk down to the amp a theater, U2 would feel such a great loss as I do. There is no place like this. No place at all.

And with your support and donations, let the rebuild begin.

My heart goes out to the staff members who lost all their belongings and homes to the fire. In my stays at EHC, I have found that there exist a staff that is second to none and through your support and donations the EHC on-site staff will be that much closer to bringing back the EHC environment that we all have come to enjoy.

Yes, the Tactile Art Barn still stands and another Woodworking event will come about but until the rebuild begins and the public is allowed back in, there is so much we all can do to ensure EHC starts scheduling events and creating opportunities. Please help support Rebuild EHC.

Thanks.

Jeff Thompson

Here is a copy of the latest from Enchanted hills Camp.

Image of LightHouse Logo

Image description: Two firefighters survey a freshly burnt area in front of the untouched cook’s cabin for remaining hot spots.Tim and Tony stand in the dirt road, both stroking their chins.

Dear Extended LightHouse Family,

This Friday afternoon we want to conclude the week with news about Enchanted Hills Camp, a few recent photographs, and some emerging stories about how some integral parts of camp survived.

As recently as last night the camp still had numerous smoldering hot spots, but the early morning rains helped enormously to limit the remaining fire danger. Mt. Veeder Road is still closed to all but first responders, an unprecedented 12 days after the fire. We’re hoping that normal Mt. Veeder Road access will be granted early next week. We’re also hoping that the hundreds of PG&E crews will get our neighbors’ electricity up and running again. However, because of the massive burn of our camp wide electrical wiring, it will be months before regular electricity lights any major camp buildings.

On Wednesday our intrepid LightHouse Producer, Camilla Sterne was able to accompany Camp Director Tony Fletcher and our dauntless contractor Tim Gregory for a visual inspection of how camp has fared. The results are alarming but hint at how we’ll rebuild in the future. The strange randomness of fire and the hard work of this week’s firefight can be seen throughout the property.

Our new Tactile Art Barn and Woodworking Studio escaped unscathed, but immediately adjacent to it the Porta Potty was reduced to dust. A thicket of vegetation burned black right up to the Art Barn but miraculously the barn survived, likely with the help of the dedicated Cal Fire crews who have been on-site for days keeping advancing flames at bay.

Image description: Enchanted Hills Camp Director Tony Fletcher and contractor Tim Gregory stand in front of the unscathed Art Barn speaking with two firefighters. Flames came just feet from the Art Barn, leaving ash and burn along the embankment around the structure and reducing the portapotty to a tidy circle of white ash.

Image description: Tim and Tony stand facing a pile of fire-scarred corrugated metal roofing, chairs and shelves that were once part of the garage and shed in upper camp. A single propane tank peeks out of the rubble — miraculously still intact.

Our other new space, the Redwood Grove Theater, is yet another contrast study, with the lovely, accessible stage built by our Napa Kiwanis partners completely destroyed, while many of the hand-carved redwood benches standing proudly to host performances for years to come. For this too, we have our firefighters to thank. As our team entered the beautiful grove, the large redwood trees still offering green needles, they spied a note tacked on the grove’s sign. In the midst of the fire, engine company #98 from Los Angeles Fire Department left us a note at the theater’s threshold: “We saved this, wish we could have saved more.”

There were other victories among the devastation. The Friday before the fire started on Sunday we had just finished re-roofing our entire dining hall with a Class A fire retardant new roof, the first in nearly 40 years. Our team clambered up on the roof to see the new roof unscathed, though with hundreds of small embers which harmlessly burned themselves out on it, surely saving camp’s largest and most valuable structure.

Image description:A note on the back of the partially charred Redwood Grove sign reads: “LAFD Engine 98. We saved this, wish we could have saved more.”

But our team’s visit to camp was a mix of victories and heartbreaking losses. In the accompanying photographs, readers can see the scene of devastation throughout camp. Beyond the loss of all 10 Lower Camp cabins, we’ve discovered that we lost the bridge and most of the benches in the Creekside Lower Chapel, as well as the Kiva bridge. We lost both boys’ and girls’ bathrooms, the massive roller rink building, the new decking, shade structure and bathhouse around our large swimming pool. Our treehouse is gone, as is the Assistant Director’s cabin and all of the structures in the sensory area. Some of our new water lines are destroyed and every standing building is full of choking smoke, contaminating bedding, carpet, ceiling and furniture.

The most aching physical loss may be the large staff house, which burned to rubble, destroying the home of five camp staff and all of their personal possessions. Our camp staff remain, frankly, stunned by their sudden dislocation. The LightHouse is working with them to ensure a smooth transition into new housing as they rebuild their lives away from the property they helped make beautiful.

Image description: The road leading to lower camp is strewn with ash and wood. A hotspot in the foreground smokes in the light while a propane tank sits in the midst of charred logs and a snow-like layer of ash.

Image description: Tim Gregory walks down the hill toward the pool. In front of him lies what’s left of the bath house: a charred wooden frame and a swath of limp metal roofing.

Image description: Firefighters collect water from the pool to put out lingering hot spots and patches of fire on Enchanted Hill property.

What our advisors are telling us is that it will be many months before camp will be functional enough to allow our staff to go about the work of rebuilding. Hundreds of precarious burned trees, downed power lines, and toxic building remains all need to be addressed, as well as reconstruction of the electrical, water and waste infrastructure to make camp habitable. For the immediate future, we mustn’t allow the public to visit camp for any reason; our entrance road will be closed and contractors will be charged to turn away all trespassers. Please, for the safety of camp reconstruction, do not make plans to visit until we issue our first community invitation, likely no sooner than summer 2018.

What we need now is creative ideas, heartfelt testimonials and donations. While the cleanup work is a heavy lift, we have seasoned professionals to rely upon, with deep roots in Napa. Once we’ve made camp safe, reinstated electrical wiring, refreshed our water supply and developed a plan for building back, then we will need volunteers: to clean, construct, reforest, and a thousand other preparatory tasks to rebuild lower camp stronger and better than ever.

If you’re moved by Camilla Sterne’s photographs of camp and have the desire and means to help today, the LightHouse has established simple, secure ways to give directly to Enchanted Hills camp, including a new option to give by text message.

Just in the last few days, our friends and neighbors and you have already begun the rebuilding process with us with your thoughtful words and gifts. These contributions will pay for reconstruction, restaffing, and rebuilding not only the structures in Napa, but the spirit of Enchanted Hills that will spring from them in the years to come. For that, we couldn’t be more grateful.

The LightHouse is committed to keeping the community up to date with these periodic updates about our camp and its rebuilding. It is so very empowering to be supported by a community as kind and engaged as ours.

Caroline Karbowski is a senior in high school with a passion for 3D imaging that led her to a 2nd place finish in the Tech Olympics. Her project is called See3D, which creates 3D images for the blind to feel and understand more clearly the shape and construct of something they never could have conceived without the added information the 3D image offered.

Caroline somehow had a passion for Braille and taught herself so she could read in the car without getting dizzy, and later she came up with See3D and although this may seem like a natural progression, Caroline is not Blind, nor visually impaired.

Caroline has pursued her passion and is now taking SEE3D to another level and bringing more opportunities for others to get involved in the See3D project. And you can too! Go to her web site at www.See3D.org and find out more and how you can request a model or how you can become part of the See3D providers.

I really enjoyed talking to Caroline and hearing her passion for what she is doing so I hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I did interviewing Caroline.

Be sure to check out her web page and give her some feedback on her See3D project on the web at www.See3D.org

You can find her article on the American foundation for the Blind web site at www.AFB.org

Caroline Karbowski is a senior in high school with a passion for 3D imaging that led her to a 2nd place finish in the Tech Olympics. Her project is called See3D, which creates 3D images for the blind to feel and understand more clearly the shape and construct of something they never could have conceived without the added information the 3D image offered.

Caroline somehow had a passion for Braille and taught herself so she could read in the car without getting dizzy, and later she came up with See3D and although this may seem like a natural progression, Caroline is not Blind, nor visually impaired.

Caroline has pursued her passion and is now taking SEE3D to another level and bringing more opportunities for others to get involved in the See3D project. And you can too! Go to her web site at www.See3D.org and find out more and how you can request a model or how you can become part of the See3D providers.

I really enjoyed talking to Caroline and hearing her passion for what she is doing so I hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I did interviewing Caroline.

Be sure to check out her web page and give her some feedback on her See3D project on the web at www.See3D.org

You can find her article on the American foundation for the Blind web site at www.AFB.org

]]>17:44noCaroline has pursued her passion and is now taking SEE3D to another level and bringing more opportunities for others to get involved in the See3D project. And you can too! Go to her web site at www.See3D.org and find out more and how you can request a model or how you can become part of the See3D providers.
1326fullWhat Does White Cane Day Mean to You? We Do the Cane Well!What Does White Cane Day Mean to You? We Do the Cane Well!Tue, 17 Oct 2017 23:48:40 +0000What Does White Cane Day Mean to You? We Do the Cane Well!

October 10th is White Cane Day in Minnesota and the Blindness community came out strong to support the awareness of the White Cane.

Speakers shared the history of White Cane day and others talked about the freedom and independence the white cane brings to them. The Minnesota State Academy for the Blind Choir shared their voices and sang aloud in the Capital’s newly remodeled Rotundra.

With the support of the local Lions Clubs, MSAB, NFB of MN and Blind, Inc. the White Cane Day event was a great event with a lot of participation. From joining in on the choir songs to marching in the walk from the St. Paul Capital to the St. Paul Cathedral and bac, participants chatted and talked while enjoying the nice Autumn day in Minnesota.

October 10th is White Cane Day in Minnesota and the Blindness community came out strong to support the awareness of the White Cane.

Speakers shared the history of White Cane day and others talked about the freedom and independence the white cane brings to them. The Minnesota State Academy for the Blind Choir shared their voices and sang aloud in the Capital’s newly remodeled Rotundra.

With the support of the local Lions Clubs, MSAB, NFB of MN and Blind, Inc. the White Cane Day event was a great event with a lot of participation. From joining in on the choir songs to marching in the walk from the St. Paul Capital to the St. Paul Cathedral and bac, participants chatted and talked while enjoying the nice Autumn day in Minnesota.

]]>16:52noOctober 10th is White Cane Day in Minnesota and the Blindness community came out strong to support the awareness of the White Cane.
Speakers shared the history of White Cane day and others talked about the freedom and independence the white cane brings to them. The Minnesota State Academy for the Blind Choir shared their voices and sang aloud in the Capital’s newly remodeled Rotundra.
1325fullAT&T and Aira Present: Molly Burke #ExperienceMoreAT&T and Aira Present: Molly Burke #ExperienceMoreMon, 16 Oct 2017 22:15:18 +0000AT&T and Aira Present: Molly Burke #ExperienceMore

About Molly Burke:

At just four-years‐old, Molly Burke’s world became a little bit darker: she was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare retinal disease causing loss of vision. Despite this, and the ensuing obstacles and hardships she faced, it wasn’t long before she began bringing light into the lives of others. Molly began public speaking at the age of five as an ambassador for The Foundation Fighting Blindness Canada. Since then, she has inspired hundreds of thousands with her story.

Over the years, as Molly’s vision deteriorated, her confidence and optimism only strengthened; but not without struggle or adversity. As a student she was tormented by bullies, and struggled with depression and anxiety. It wasn’t until she found the strength to face her challenges, and the courage to reach out to others, that she came to find her purpose - bringing hope to others.

AT&T Experience More is an innovative social project that celebrates how blind/low vision individuals Experience More – through their actions, passions, use of technology and more.

Join us in the movement and share how you, a friend or family member Experience More using the hashtag #ExperienceMore. Check out our video and podcast series showcasing some extraordinary individuals and their ongoing pursuits to Experience More as well as our commitment to accessibility.

At just four-years‐old, Molly Burke’s world became a little bit darker: she was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare retinal disease causing loss of vision. Despite this, and the ensuing obstacles and hardships she faced, it wasn’t long before she began bringing light into the lives of others. Molly began public speaking at the age of five as an ambassador for The Foundation Fighting Blindness Canada. Since then, she has inspired hundreds of thousands with her story.

Over the years, as Molly’s vision deteriorated, her confidence and optimism only strengthened; but not without struggle or adversity. As a student she was tormented by bullies, and struggled with depression and anxiety. It wasn’t until she found the strength to face her challenges, and the courage to reach out to others, that she came to find her purpose - bringing hope to others.

AT&T Experience More is an innovative social project that celebrates how blind/low vision individuals Experience More – through their actions, passions, use of technology and more.

Join us in the movement and share how you, a friend or family member Experience More using the hashtag #ExperienceMore. Check out our video and podcast series showcasing some extraordinary individuals and their ongoing pursuits to Experience More as well as our commitment to accessibility.

]]>38:12noOver the years, as Molly’s vision deteriorated, her confidence and optimism only strengthened; but not without struggle or adversity. As a student she was tormented by bullies, and struggled with depression and anxiety. It wasn’t until she found the strength to face her challenges, and the courage to reach out to others, that she came to find her purpose - bringing hope to others.
AT&T #ExperienceMore and Aira Present1324fullMy Weekend with Emmitt Smith, Compliments of #ExperienceMore @AT&T @AiraMy Weekend with Emmitt Smith, Compliments of #ExperienceMore @AT&T @AiraSat, 14 Oct 2017 19:23:15 +0000My Weekend with Emmitt Smith, Compliments of #ExperienceMore @AT&T @Aira

The AT&T ExperienceMore Campaign and Aira present “My Weekend with Emmitt Smith”. Join Pete Lane as he and his son Patrick travel to Dallas, Texas to attend a Cowboys NFL game courtesy of AT&T and Aira. Pete takes us through his weekend, from jumping on his flight from Jacksonville to DFW Airport in Fort Worth, to “Game Day”.

Enjoy the sounds of AT&T stadium, from the field level to the Ring of Honor Suite and special seats on the 50 yard line.

Best of all, join Pete as he connects to his very special Aira Agent, Emmitt smith: NFL Hall of Famer, all-time NFL leading rusher, and former star of the University of Florida Gators. Hear Emmitt call the plays of the game in real time, his knowledge of the game of football and his understanding of what a blind fan wants to hear while viewing the game.

Finally, join Pete and Patrick as they enjoy a special tour behind the scenes of AT&T Stadium the day after the game. Sit back and relax as Pete presents this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in a way that only Blind Abilities can offer! Check out the experience More Campaign at ExperienceMore.ATT.Com and learn more about the fabulous Aira service on the web.

The AT&T ExperienceMore Campaign and Aira present “My Weekend with Emmitt Smith”. Join Pete Lane as he and his son Patrick travel to Dallas, Texas to attend a Cowboys NFL game courtesy of AT&T and Aira. Pete takes us through his weekend, from jumping on his flight from Jacksonville to DFW Airport in Fort Worth, to “Game Day”.

Enjoy the sounds of AT&T stadium, from the field level to the Ring of Honor Suite and special seats on the 50 yard line.

Best of all, join Pete as he connects to his very special Aira Agent, Emmitt smith: NFL Hall of Famer, all-time NFL leading rusher, and former star of the University of Florida Gators. Hear Emmitt call the plays of the game in real time, his knowledge of the game of football and his understanding of what a blind fan wants to hear while viewing the game.

Finally, join Pete and Patrick as they enjoy a special tour behind the scenes of AT&T Stadium the day after the game. Sit back and relax as Pete presents this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in a way that only Blind Abilities can offer! Check out the experience More Campaign at ExperienceMore.ATT.Com and learn more about the fabulous Aira service on the web.

]]>24:14noBest of all, join Pete as he connects to his very special Aira Agent, Emmitt smith: NFL Hall of Famer, all-time NFL leading rusher, and former star of the University of Florida Gators. Hear Emmitt call the plays of the game in real time, his knowledge of the game of football and his understanding of what a blind fan wants to hear while viewing the game.
1323fullSusan Robinson: Consultant, Business Owner, TED Talk 1 Million Club - How I Fail at Being DisabledSusan Robinson: Consultant, Business Owner, TED Talk 1 Million Club - How I Fail at Being DisabledMon, 09 Oct 2017 16:50:15 +0000Susan Robinson: Consultant, Business Owner, TED Talk 1 Million Club - How I Fail at Being Disabled

Susan Robinson’s Ted Talk just surpassed 1 million views and is still going strong. Susan’s humor and unique presentation about her experience with vision loss is educational to all, not just the Blind and Visually Impaired community, as her intent reaches out to the world wide community to broaden their thinking and to reshape their philosophy and to transform their philosophy on “What Is” possible.

Susan authors the Oh Fabled One blog on the web which continues her experiences she shared on her Ted Talk. Be sure to check out the blog and leave your comments as Susan wants to hear from you.

This podcast is based on her vision loss experiences; however, there is so much more as Susan talks her talk the way only Susan Robinson can. You will learn a lot as she talks about her experiences and her views from a perspective only she can tell. But remember, Susan failed at being disabled!

You can find her blog on the web at Oh Fabled One. Subscribe and don’t miss any of her posts!

]]>Susan Robinson: Consultant, Business Owner, TED Talk 1 Million Club - How I Fail at Being Disabled

Susan Robinson’s Ted Talk just surpassed 1 million views and is still going strong. Susan’s humor and unique presentation about her experience with vision loss is educational to all, not just the Blind and Visually Impaired community, as her intent reaches out to the world wide community to broaden their thinking and to reshape their philosophy and to transform their philosophy on “What Is” possible.

Susan authors the Oh Fabled One blog on the web which continues her experiences she shared on her Ted Talk. Be sure to check out the blog and leave your comments as Susan wants to hear from you.

This podcast is based on her vision loss experiences; however, there is so much more as Susan talks her talk the way only Susan Robinson can. You will learn a lot as she talks about her experiences and her views from a perspective only she can tell. But remember, Susan failed at being disabled!

You can find her blog on the web at Oh Fabled One. Subscribe and don’t miss any of her posts!

Shampoo and conditioner bottles are like twins. They are either fraternal (don’t look alike) or identical (look the same). If you buy a brand that offers the fraternal version, you are set. However, many brands offer identical bottles for their shampoo and conditioner. This makes it hard to distinguish between them. I have compiled a few different techniques that I have used or have heard others use, in order to assist with this dilemma. However, this is not an exhaustive list, so your technique may not be here.

Technology is absolutely wonderful. We have so many options these days, with apps that identify products. However, taking our iDevice into the shower is probably not a good idea. I could see many accidents happening here. Also, some apps take a few seconds to return a good result, which is pretty time consuming. So I will focus on non-technology options.

Did You Scratch Your Sister?

This one I use quite frequently. I first determine which is which. Then I scratch the top of the shampoo lid with an old pair of scissors, or knife. This allows me to feel the tops of the bottles in the shower, to see which is which. This has been pretty effective for me and is quick. However, you could hurt yourself, so be very careful, or choose another method. If you are one who typically buys the same brand every time, you could just swap the tops, instead of repeating the process. You could also save the top if you like to switch brands, and pull it out of the cupboard when you buy that brand again.

Dress Them Up to Tell the Difference

You could always place a bread tie, rubber band, hair tie or pipe cleaner around the top of the shampoo bottle, in order to tell the difference. I have heard of people using dots to tell the difference as well. However, the moisture may lead to them falling off. This also could be quite expensive. Some have also used tape to tell, but again the moisture may be a problem.

Just Rip It Off!

Some have also peeled off the label from the shampoo bottle. If your fingertips aren’t that sensitive, this approach may be a problem for you. Also some bottles just have printing right on them, so this would not work in those cases.

Do I Need to Separate You Two?

One easy way to handle this is to just place the bottles in different locations inside the shower. Although if you live with others they may move them on you. You may also decide to transfer the contents into another bottle in order to tell the difference. This may become messy!

What Happened Here?

After a few uses of the conditioner you may notice that the bottle does not return to its regular shape. It appears indented, but the shampoo does not seem to do this. So this is a good way to tell them apart after a few uses.

Shampoo and conditioner bottles are like twins. They are either fraternal (don’t look alike) or identical (look the same). If you buy a brand that offers the fraternal version, you are set. However, many brands offer identical bottles for their shampoo and conditioner. This makes it hard to distinguish between them. I have compiled a few different techniques that I have used or have heard others use, in order to assist with this dilemma. However, this is not an exhaustive list, so your technique may not be here.

Technology is absolutely wonderful. We have so many options these days, with apps that identify products. However, taking our iDevice into the shower is probably not a good idea. I could see many accidents happening here. Also, some apps take a few seconds to return a good result, which is pretty time consuming. So I will focus on non-technology options.

Did You Scratch Your Sister?

This one I use quite frequently. I first determine which is which. Then I scratch the top of the shampoo lid with an old pair of scissors, or knife. This allows me to feel the tops of the bottles in the shower, to see which is which. This has been pretty effective for me and is quick. However, you could hurt yourself, so be very careful, or choose another method. If you are one who typically buys the same brand every time, you could just swap the tops, instead of repeating the process. You could also save the top if you like to switch brands, and pull it out of the cupboard when you buy that brand again.

Dress Them Up to Tell the Difference

You could always place a bread tie, rubber band, hair tie or pipe cleaner around the top of the shampoo bottle, in order to tell the difference. I have heard of people using dots to tell the difference as well. However, the moisture may lead to them falling off. This also could be quite expensive. Some have also used tape to tell, but again the moisture may be a problem.

Just Rip It Off!

Some have also peeled off the label from the shampoo bottle. If your fingertips aren’t that sensitive, this approach may be a problem for you. Also some bottles just have printing right on them, so this would not work in those cases.

Do I Need to Separate You Two?

One easy way to handle this is to just place the bottles in different locations inside the shower. Although if you live with others they may move them on you. You may also decide to transfer the contents into another bottle in order to tell the difference. This may become messy!

What Happened Here?

After a few uses of the conditioner you may notice that the bottle does not return to its regular shape. It appears indented, but the shampoo does not seem to do this. So this is a good way to tell them apart after a few uses.

]]>Meet Rakeb Max: Successfully Navigating the Transition from High School to CollegeMeet Rakeb Max: Successfully Navigating the Transition from High School to CollegeMon, 02 Oct 2017 05:27:51 +0000Meet Rakeb Max: Successfully Navigating the Transition from High School to College

The State Services for the Blind Success Series continues as Rakeb Max sits down with Blind Abilities Team member Jeff Thompson and talks about preparing to transition from high school to college and the workplace.

Rakeb was recently appointed by Governor Mark Dayton to the Young Women’s Initiative cabinet where she will assist the Governor and the Women’s foundation to develop initiatives and policies to close opportunity and disparity gaps between men and women, specifically women of color.

Last summer Rakeb attended George Washington University for a summer intensive program giving her some experience that will help her make decisions for her transition to college next year.

Rakeb has already began the process and has some good advice for others as she talks about her experiences and successes.

]]>Meet Rakeb Max: Successfully Navigating the Transition from High School to College

The State Services for the Blind Success Series continues as Rakeb Max sits down with Blind Abilities Team member Jeff Thompson and talks about preparing to transition from high school to college and the workplace.

Rakeb was recently appointed by Governor Mark Dayton to the Young Women’s Initiative cabinet where she will assist the Governor and the Women’s foundation to develop initiatives and policies to close opportunity and disparity gaps between men and women, specifically women of color.

Last summer Rakeb attended George Washington University for a summer intensive program giving her some experience that will help her make decisions for her transition to college next year.

Rakeb has already began the process and has some good advice for others as she talks about her experiences and successes.

]]>19:50noRakeb Max is preparing for her transition from high school to college and the workplace. As someone with vision loss, Rakeb gives us some advice on making the transition right.1321fullThat Blind Tech Show: And You Thought Just Apples Were Coming Out!That Blind Tech Show: And You Thought Just Apples Were Coming Out!Fri, 29 Sep 2017 04:52:47 +0000That Blind Tech Show: And You Thought Just Apples Were Coming Out!

With the release of the iPhone 8 and the 8 Plus, a lot of people are interested in stepping up and shining their new apples. With the new iPhones came the release of the new iOS 11 and it’s all about the accessibility on this episode of That Blind Tech show.

From Allison’s new Apple Watch Series 3, to the New High Sierra on Jeff’s iMac to Bryan’s Demonstration of NFB Newsline on Amazon’s Echo Dot, this episode brings out more than just Apples, yup, the entire orchard is coming out.

With the release of the iPhone 8 and the 8 Plus, a lot of people are interested in stepping up and shining their new apples. With the new iPhones came the release of the new iOS 11 and it’s all about the accessibility on this episode of That Blind Tech show.

From Allison’s new Apple Watch Series 3, to the New High Sierra on Jeff’s iMac to Bryan’s Demonstration of NFB Newsline on Amazon’s Echo Dot, this episode brings out more than just Apples, yup, the entire orchard is coming out.

01:04:05noThat Blind Tech Show bringing the latest news from the Apple Orchard's Other side. Demo's, tips and Tricks and much more in this fun and entertaining episode.1320fullLife Interrupted and The Blind Perspective - Meet Karen SantiagoLife Interrupted and The Blind Perspective - Meet Karen SantiagoTue, 26 Sep 2017 02:23:28 +0000Life Interrupted and The Blind Perspective - Meet Karen Santiago

Blind Abilities team member Jeff Thompson gets a chance to sit down with Karen Santiago for an opportunity to learn more about the person behind The Blind perspective News Letter. Karen was attending the National Federation for the Blind convention 2017 in Orlando, Florida, her first convention and her first time meeting up with a lot of virtual friends.

Karen talks about her adjustment to Blindness and the tools and determination that she incorporated on her journey to reestablish her place in the World, and how to accept her new Blind World.

Through classes at Hadley Institute for the Blind ranging from Braille, Guide Dogs, Elevated Gardening, to Technology, Screen Readers and mobility, karen took them all. She was Student of the Year in 2010 at Hadley Institute and learned enough to land her job at Easter Seals.

Karen is a mom and she experienced it all from family, work, education, internships, guide dogs, distance learning and initiating and creating The Blind Perspective News letter.

Wanting to subscribe to The Blind Perspective. All you are needing to do is use your email program's reply feature & send a blank reply and you will be automatically added to the distribution list. Please note: if you do not see the confirmation email in your in-box check your junk mail.

Blind Abilities team member Jeff Thompson gets a chance to sit down with Karen Santiago for an opportunity to learn more about the person behind The Blind perspective News Letter. Karen was attending the National Federation for the Blind convention 2017 in Orlando, Florida, her first convention and her first time meeting up with a lot of virtual friends.

Karen talks about her adjustment to Blindness and the tools and determination that she incorporated on her journey to reestablish her place in the World, and how to accept her new Blind World.

Through classes at Hadley Institute for the Blind ranging from Braille, Guide Dogs, Elevated Gardening, to Technology, Screen Readers and mobility, karen took them all. She was Student of the Year in 2010 at Hadley Institute and learned enough to land her job at Easter Seals.

Karen is a mom and she experienced it all from family, work, education, internships, guide dogs, distance learning and initiating and creating The Blind Perspective News letter.

Wanting to subscribe to The Blind Perspective. All you are needing to do is use your email program's reply feature & send a blank reply and you will be automatically added to the distribution list. Please note: if you do not see the confirmation email in your in-box check your junk mail.

]]>19:30noMeet Karen Santiago of The Blind Perspective News letter. Karen sits down with Jeff Thompson of the Blind Abilities Podcast Team.1319fullAT&T and Aira Present: A Conversation With Belo CiprianiAT&T and Aira Present: A Conversation With Belo CiprianiSun, 24 Sep 2017 15:01:53 +0000AT&T and Aira Present: A Conversation With Belo Cipriani

Blind Abilities brings you another installment in the series, presented by AT&T and Aira featuring individuals who have influenced the blindness community through their passions and their actions. This installment introduces Belo Cipriani. belo is an author, an eloquent advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, and so much more. Join Jeff and Pete as they explore Belo’s story, beginning with the tragic assault that led to his blindness, to his rehabilitation at Orientation College for the Blind (OCB), finishing his Masters Degree, writing his book: "Blind, A Memoir”, and his life as a gay blind person. Belo offers a deep look at his thoughts, his fears and his noteworthy attitude that its great to be blind.

This podcast is the second in a series featuring “influencers” who show not only their ability to survive blindness but their insistence to excel and #ExperienceMore through their passions and their actions. Check out all the details about the AT&T #ExperienceMore campaign at: ExperienceMore.ATT.com, including a variety of videos about these “influencers”.

Blind Abilities brings you another installment in the series, presented by AT&T and Aira featuring individuals who have influenced the blindness community through their passions and their actions. This installment introduces Belo Cipriani. belo is an author, an eloquent advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, and so much more. Join Jeff and Pete as they explore Belo’s story, beginning with the tragic assault that led to his blindness, to his rehabilitation at Orientation College for the Blind (OCB), finishing his Masters Degree, writing his book: "Blind, A Memoir”, and his life as a gay blind person. Belo offers a deep look at his thoughts, his fears and his noteworthy attitude that its great to be blind.

This podcast is the second in a series featuring “influencers” who show not only their ability to survive blindness but their insistence to excel and #ExperienceMore through their passions and their actions. Check out all the details about the AT&T #ExperienceMore campaign at: ExperienceMore.ATT.com, including a variety of videos about these “influencers”.

]]>39:01noThis podcast is the second in a series featuring “influencers” who show not only their ability to survive blindness but their insistence to excel and #ExperienceMore through their passions and their actions1318fullBlind AbilitiesHey Siri, You’re In My Apple Watch 2! In My Bluetooth Headset! Time to Get the Series 3Hey Siri, You’re In My Apple Watch 2! In My Bluetooth headset! Time to Get the Series 3Mon, 18 Sep 2017 05:05:26 +0000Hey Siri, You’re In My Apple Watch 2! In My Bluetooth Headset! Time to Get the Series 3

Jeff Thompson of The Blind Abilities Podcasting team explains why upgrading to the Apple Watch Series 3 will be a good thing if you want the full experience in this Apple Watch experiment.

Seems like the Apple Watch to me is an ongoing process and as you wear this Jewel of the Nile of a watch, it seems to become more and more of your daily life. Yes, it is a simple yet expensive piece of kit that seems a bit excessive; however, with just a little help from the new 2 core processor giving this kit some 70 percent more horsepower and the addition of a cellular option, well... let the experiment begin.

Join Jeff as he shows you how the Apple Watch operating system 4.0 gets around using Siri and playing music through Bluetooth speaker.

]]>Hey Siri, You’re In My Apple Watch 2! In My Bluetooth Headset! Time to Get the Series 3

Jeff Thompson of The Blind Abilities Podcasting team explains why upgrading to the Apple Watch Series 3 will be a good thing if you want the full experience in this Apple Watch experiment.

Seems like the Apple Watch to me is an ongoing process and as you wear this Jewel of the Nile of a watch, it seems to become more and more of your daily life. Yes, it is a simple yet expensive piece of kit that seems a bit excessive; however, with just a little help from the new 2 core processor giving this kit some 70 percent more horsepower and the addition of a cellular option, well... let the experiment begin.

Join Jeff as he shows you how the Apple Watch operating system 4.0 gets around using Siri and playing music through Bluetooth speaker.

Bryan Fischler is joined by Allison Hartley and Jeff Thompson for coverage of the Fall Apple Event where the new iPhone 8, 8+ and the iPhone 10 were announced. The Apple Watch Series 3, Apple TV4K and iOS 11 are all just around the corner.

You can check out apple.com for all the latest order, pre-order, and delivery estimates.

A big Thank You to Drew Weber for his original music! You can find more of Drew's music on the web at www.Weber-Air.com and follow Drew on Twitter @RadioDrew1

Bryan Fischler is joined by Allison Hartley and Jeff Thompson for coverage of the Fall Apple Event where the new iPhone 8, 8+ and the iPhone 10 were announced. The Apple Watch Series 3, Apple TV4K and iOS 11 are all just around the corner.

You can check out apple.com for all the latest order, pre-order, and delivery estimates.

A big Thank You to Drew Weber for his original music! You can find more of Drew's music on the web at www.Weber-Air.com and follow Drew on Twitter @RadioDrew1

]]>01:00:07no1316fullKirk Adams on AFB, Aira, Team Sea To See and Transitioning To CollegeKirk Adams on AFB, Aira, Team Sea To See and Transition To CollegeTue, 12 Sep 2017 17:20:23 +0000Kirk Adams on AFB, Aira, Team Sea To See and Transitioning To College

Kirk Adams sits down with the Blind Abilities team members Pete Lane and Jeff Thompson for this informative podcast on the American Foundation for the Blind. Kirk talks about the history and some of the latest happenings at AFB and the resources available to all students, teachers, TVI’s and parents. You can find a multiple of categories of articles ranging in topics from Transitioning to college,Life skills, Work Preparedness, Access Technology, Parents of Blind Children and much more.

You can find out about the apps available from AFB that put the information in the palm of your hand.

Kirk also mentions the AFB Leadership Conference coming up on April 5-7 2018 in Oakland, California. Where AFB brings together all the entities around Blindness can be part of the conversation.

Check out AFB.org on the web and download their apps so you can stay in touch with the latest happenings and information available from the American Foundation for the Blind.

This is the official app of the American Foundation for the Blind's resource center AFB CareerConnect.

AFB CareerConnect is a free online resource center specific to career exploration, job seeking skills, transition from school to work, e-mentoring, and navigating the employment process as a person who is blind or visually impaired.

This app has been optimized for iOS VoiceOver and Accessibility features.

]]>Kirk Adams on AFB, Aira, Team Sea To See and Transitioning To College

Kirk Adams sits down with the Blind Abilities team members Pete Lane and Jeff Thompson for this informative podcast on the American Foundation for the Blind. Kirk talks about the history and some of the latest happenings at AFB and the resources available to all students, teachers, TVI’s and parents. You can find a multiple of categories of articles ranging in topics from Transitioning to college,Life skills, Work Preparedness, Access Technology, Parents of Blind Children and much more.

You can find out about the apps available from AFB that put the information in the palm of your hand.

Kirk also mentions the AFB Leadership Conference coming up on April 5-7 2018 in Oakland, California. Where AFB brings together all the entities around Blindness can be part of the conversation.

Check out AFB.org on the web and download their apps so you can stay in touch with the latest happenings and information available from the American Foundation for the Blind.

This is the official app of the American Foundation for the Blind's resource center AFB CareerConnect.

AFB CareerConnect is a free online resource center specific to career exploration, job seeking skills, transition from school to work, e-mentoring, and navigating the employment process as a person who is blind or visually impaired.

This app has been optimized for iOS VoiceOver and Accessibility features.

]]>22:27no1315fullAT&T and Aira Present: The Experience More CampaignAT&T and Aira Present: The Experience More CampaignThu, 07 Sep 2017 12:17:37 +0000AT&T and Aira Present: The #ExperienceMore Campaign

AT&T and Aira present the first in a series of interviews featuring individuals who have influenced the blindness community through their passions and actions. This podcast is produced by Blind Abilities.

Jeff Thompson andPete Lane chat with Deborah Sunday, representing AT&T, and Kevin Phelen, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Aira, to discuss the Experience More Campaign, a social campaign observing the achievements of various blind and visually impaired people across the blindness community, including Christine Ha, Erich Manser and others. Also captured in this campaign will be a series of visits to AT&t stores in eleven cities across the nation, and perhaps most appealing: a Sweepstakes for which the winner will receive two tickets to Dallas to attend a professional football game. Add to this the fact that they will also have use of a pair of Aira glasses and the Aira Agent for the game will be the one and only Emmitt Smith, NFL Hall of Famer, and all-time leading rusher. Emmitt will call the play by play for the entire game. What better way to experience more at a professional football game! Stay tuned to Blind Abilities for more interviews around the Experience More Campaign, and Aira.

AT&T and Aira present the first in a series of interviews featuring individuals who have influenced the blindness community through their passions and actions. This podcast is produced by Blind Abilities.

Jeff Thompson andPete Lane chat with Deborah Sunday, representing AT&T, and Kevin Phelen, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Aira, to discuss the Experience More Campaign, a social campaign observing the achievements of various blind and visually impaired people across the blindness community, including Christine Ha, Erich Manser and others. Also captured in this campaign will be a series of visits to AT&t stores in eleven cities across the nation, and perhaps most appealing: a Sweepstakes for which the winner will receive two tickets to Dallas to attend a professional football game. Add to this the fact that they will also have use of a pair of Aira glasses and the Aira Agent for the game will be the one and only Emmitt Smith, NFL Hall of Famer, and all-time leading rusher. Emmitt will call the play by play for the entire game. What better way to experience more at a professional football game! Stay tuned to Blind Abilities for more interviews around the Experience More Campaign, and Aira.

]]>16:26no1314fullRace Across America - Success In Plain Sight: Meet Team Sea To SeeRace Across America - Success In Plain Sight: Meet Team Sea To SeeThu, 07 Sep 2017 04:09:16 +0000Jack Chen, Daniel Berlin, Tina Ament and Micheal Somsan are putting together the first All-Blind Stoker team for the epic endurance bike race in the world, the “Race Across America,” (RAAM). The RAAM is a non-stop race from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast on a Tandem bike and the logistics and preparations are well underway.

Listen to Jack, Tina and Daniel talk about putting the Team together and all that goes into such an epic endurance event.

Jack is a Google lawyer, Tina is a US Attorney in DC and Daniel is a co-founder of a major company producing Vanilla extract. Besides their business success they all train and seek out challenges that are out of this world. From Kilimanjaro, to Ironman races, ultra marathons and mountain climbing on a tandem, the RAAM was just waiting for them, I guess, just because it was there.

Join Jeff Thompson from the Blind Abilities Podcast team as Jack, Dan and Tina invite you all to share their event and spread the word about Success in Plain Sight.

Team Sea to See is committed to proving that blind people can succeed in any field. We believe that demonstrating this capacity to succeed is critical to empowering others in the blind community and changing society’s perceptions of the blind. We are illustrating this capability by building a team of blind people to tackle RAAM and an accompanying media and outreach campaign.

We believe that lack of exposure to and understanding of blindness plays a major role in keeping employment rates so low for the blind community. Employers aren’t intrinsically hostile to the blind; they just don’t understand how blind people can, through ingenuity and adaptive technology, enjoy the same success as their sighted colleagues. We’re taking on the high-profile challenge of the Race Across America to show what blind success looks like, on and off the bike.

We are a team of successful businesspeople and athletes who share blindness as a common characteristic. We’re entering the world’s most grueling endurance cycling race, the 2018 Race Across America (RAAM), to show the immense capabilities of blind people and to raise awareness of the abysmal employment rates of the blind. We will be highlighting our achievements through a major media campaign and a full-length documentary. And we need your help.

Your tax-deductible gift can help us shed light on the unacceptable employment rates for blind people across the nation and bring the inspiring stories of our team members into plain view. By supporting Team Sea to See, you will interact with an international audience through conventional and social media, showing your support of diversity and inclusion and helping to change the way the world sees the blind.

]]>Jack Chen, Daniel Berlin, Tina Ament and Micheal Somsan are putting together the first All-Blind Stoker team for the epic endurance bike race in the world, the “Race Across America,” (RAAM). The RAAM is a non-stop race from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast on a Tandem bike and the logistics and preparations are well underway.

Listen to Jack, Tina and Daniel talk about putting the Team together and all that goes into such an epic endurance event.

Jack is a Google lawyer, Tina is a US Attorney in DC and Daniel is a co-founder of a major company producing Vanilla extract. Besides their business success they all train and seek out challenges that are out of this world. From Kilimanjaro, to Ironman races, ultra marathons and mountain climbing on a tandem, the RAAM was just waiting for them, I guess, just because it was there.

Join Jeff Thompson from the Blind Abilities Podcast team as Jack, Dan and Tina invite you all to share their event and spread the word about Success in Plain Sight.

Team Sea to See is committed to proving that blind people can succeed in any field. We believe that demonstrating this capacity to succeed is critical to empowering others in the blind community and changing society’s perceptions of the blind. We are illustrating this capability by building a team of blind people to tackle RAAM and an accompanying media and outreach campaign.

We believe that lack of exposure to and understanding of blindness plays a major role in keeping employment rates so low for the blind community. Employers aren’t intrinsically hostile to the blind; they just don’t understand how blind people can, through ingenuity and adaptive technology, enjoy the same success as their sighted colleagues. We’re taking on the high-profile challenge of the Race Across America to show what blind success looks like, on and off the bike.

We are a team of successful businesspeople and athletes who share blindness as a common characteristic. We’re entering the world’s most grueling endurance cycling race, the 2018 Race Across America (RAAM), to show the immense capabilities of blind people and to raise awareness of the abysmal employment rates of the blind. We will be highlighting our achievements through a major media campaign and a full-length documentary. And we need your help.

Your tax-deductible gift can help us shed light on the unacceptable employment rates for blind people across the nation and bring the inspiring stories of our team members into plain view. By supporting Team Sea to See, you will interact with an international audience through conventional and social media, showing your support of diversity and inclusion and helping to change the way the world sees the blind.

This episode is filled with tech news from a texting law suit to memories changing on Facebook. Check out the list below and the provided links to see what these two boys are up to in this episode of That Blind Tech Show.

This episode is filled with tech news from a texting law suit to memories changing on Facebook. Check out the list below and the provided links to see what these two boys are up to in this episode of That Blind Tech Show.

Blind Abilities brings you their final installment from the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) 2017 national convention in Jacksonville, Florida. With this episode, Pete introduces two products which he has not previously encountered.

first, BrainPort V-100 Vision Aid, a pair of sun glasses possessing a video camera that converts images into electronic impulses to a square disk that sits on the tongue. This device allows blind users to detect contrast in an image: the lighter the image, the more intense the sensation will be on the tongue. It is used in conjunction with a navigational tool, such as a cane or dog to provide an additional piece of sensory information for the user - any information is good information! Check out BrainPort at: www.Wicab.com

Next, Pete learns about Low vision simulators, created by Marshall flax who converts ‘welders goggles” into devices that simulate various visual conditions, such as Macular Degeneration, RP, etc. These goggles can be purchased in a package of all 13 units, or individually to show sighted people what blind or visually impaired folks actually see. These devices can be shared with friends or family, or used by Rehab specialists, trainers or other professionals help family or friends better understand and cope with blindness.

Blind Abilities would like to thank all the folks who chatted with us at #BVA2017, and special thanks to the Blinded Veterans Association for all they do for the heroes who served our country, and for holding a great convention!

Blind Abilities brings you their final installment from the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) 2017 national convention in Jacksonville, Florida. With this episode, Pete introduces two products which he has not previously encountered.

first, BrainPort V-100 Vision Aid, a pair of sun glasses possessing a video camera that converts images into electronic impulses to a square disk that sits on the tongue. This device allows blind users to detect contrast in an image: the lighter the image, the more intense the sensation will be on the tongue. It is used in conjunction with a navigational tool, such as a cane or dog to provide an additional piece of sensory information for the user - any information is good information! Check out BrainPort at: www.Wicab.com

Next, Pete learns about Low vision simulators, created by Marshall flax who converts ‘welders goggles” into devices that simulate various visual conditions, such as Macular Degeneration, RP, etc. These goggles can be purchased in a package of all 13 units, or individually to show sighted people what blind or visually impaired folks actually see. These devices can be shared with friends or family, or used by Rehab specialists, trainers or other professionals help family or friends better understand and cope with blindness.

Blind Abilities would like to thank all the folks who chatted with us at #BVA2017, and special thanks to the Blinded Veterans Association for all they do for the heroes who served our country, and for holding a great convention!

BlindAbilities brings you more great audio from the Blinded Veterans Association 2017 national convention as Pete Lane introduces an old friend of the podcast. Meet Larry Muffett and The Hadley Institute.

Larry discusses some of the programs offered for veterans, as well as some general information about Hadley’s 2017 focus.

Also featured in this episode is Orcam, a smart glass device that offers many features, including OCR, facial recognition, bar code reading, color identification and more. Stay tuned as Orcam version 8.0 of their software is announced in the next few weeks. Check out more about their two products at Orcam on the web

BlindAbilities brings you more great audio from the Blinded Veterans Association 2017 national convention as Pete Lane introduces an old friend of the podcast. Meet Larry Muffett and The Hadley Institute.

Larry discusses some of the programs offered for veterans, as well as some general information about Hadley’s 2017 focus.

Also featured in this episode is Orcam, a smart glass device that offers many features, including OCR, facial recognition, bar code reading, color identification and more. Stay tuned as Orcam version 8.0 of their software is announced in the next few weeks. Check out more about their two products at Orcam on the web

]]>08:34no1310fullBVA17: What’s New With Aira For Vets? A Chat With Amy BernalBVA17: What’s New With Aira For Vets? A Chat With Amy BernalThu, 24 Aug 2017 17:37:12 +0000BVA17: What’s New With Aira For Vets? A Chat With Amy Bernal

Aira is the focus of the fifth installment of the Blind Abilities coverage of the Blinded Veterans Association 2017 national convention. Pete chats with Amy Bernal, VP of Customer Experience, who brings us up to date on what Aira has to offer blind veterans. Aira has worked closely with the VA to provide funding for the Aira hardware (Glasses and WiFi Hotspot), allowing qualifying vets to enjoy the full Aira service for only $29 per month. Listen as Amy outlines how vets can take advantage of this funding arrangement, and check out the details at the new Aira web page, specifically created for veterans:

Aira is the focus of the fifth installment of the Blind Abilities coverage of the Blinded Veterans Association 2017 national convention. Pete chats with Amy Bernal, VP of Customer Experience, who brings us up to date on what Aira has to offer blind veterans. Aira has worked closely with the VA to provide funding for the Aira hardware (Glasses and WiFi Hotspot), allowing qualifying vets to enjoy the full Aira service for only $29 per month. Listen as Amy outlines how vets can take advantage of this funding arrangement, and check out the details at the new Aira web page, specifically created for veterans:

Blind Abilities coverage of BVA 2017 continues as Pete Lane interviews Sean Tibbetts, CEO and Co-founder of Cyber Timez, makers of Cyber Eyez. These smart glasses offer numerous functions, ranging from OCR text recognition in more than 160 different languages, performs as a magnifier, color identifier, recognizes more than six billion objects, a bar code reader, offers internet radio, Skype, and much more without an internet connection. Join Pete as he witnesses a live demonstration of just a couple of these features at the Blinded Veterans Association 2017 national convention.

Blind Abilities coverage of BVA 2017 continues as Pete Lane interviews Sean Tibbetts, CEO and Co-founder of Cyber Timez, makers of Cyber Eyez. These smart glasses offer numerous functions, ranging from OCR text recognition in more than 160 different languages, performs as a magnifier, color identifier, recognizes more than six billion objects, a bar code reader, offers internet radio, Skype, and much more without an internet connection. Join Pete as he witnesses a live demonstration of just a couple of these features at the Blinded Veterans Association 2017 national convention.

]]>09:08no1308fullBVA2017: Introducing Baum - Blind and Low Vision Products, with David BradburnBVA2017: Introducing Baum - Blind and Low Vision Products, with David BradburnSun, 20 Aug 2017 18:53:13 +0000Blind Abilities brings you audio from the BVA 2017 National convention, with Pete Lane chatting with David Bradburn of the Baum company. Baum manufactures reliable and sophisticated braille displays and CCT/Magnifiers as well as serving as distributer for some other high quality products.

]]>Blind Abilities brings you audio from the BVA 2017 National convention, with Pete Lane chatting with David Bradburn of the Baum company. Baum manufactures reliable and sophisticated braille displays and CCT/Magnifiers as well as serving as distributer for some other high quality products.

Blind Abilities brings you audio from the 2017 Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) National Convention in Jacksonville, Florida. Pete Lane introduces us to the BVA and two of its key members: Paul Mimms, National BVA Secretary, and Chuck Miller, adventurer and Certified Sailor. Join Pete with this, our first episode in a series from the convention floor of the BVA 2017 National convention.

Blind Abilities brings you audio from the 2017 Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) National Convention in Jacksonville, Florida. Pete Lane introduces us to the BVA and two of its key members: Paul Mimms, National BVA Secretary, and Chuck Miller, adventurer and Certified Sailor. Join Pete with this, our first episode in a series from the convention floor of the BVA 2017 National convention.

]]>16:12no1306fullAMI Interviews Aira’s Father & Son Team on Using the Virtual Interpreter For the BlindAMI Interviews Aira’s Father & Son Team on Using the Virtual Interpreter For the BlindSat, 19 Aug 2017 00:27:51 +0000AMI Interviews Aira’s Father & Son Team on Using the Virtual Interpreter For the Blind

Pete and his son Patrick appeared on the Canadian nation radio show on the AMI network to talk about Aira - Visual Interpreter for the blind. Pete and Patrick talk about this amazing service for the BVI community and when it might arrive in Canada.

]]>AMI Interviews Aira’s Father & Son Team on Using the Virtual Interpreter For the Blind

Pete and his son Patrick appeared on the Canadian nation radio show on the AMI network to talk about Aira - Visual Interpreter for the blind. Pete and Patrick talk about this amazing service for the BVI community and when it might arrive in Canada.

Join Pete Lane as he walks you through a wonderful experience with the Eclipse Soundscapes Project App.

The Eclipse Soundscapes Project app is specially designed so that people who are blind and visually impaired can share in the awe and wonder of astronomical events in real time with their sighted peers.

The app is a joint effort between The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO), NASA’s Heliophysics Education Consortium (HEC), the National Center for Accessible Media (NCAM), and the National Park Service (NPS). Features include an interactive “Rumble map”; audio descriptions of key features of the eclipse; a play-by-play description of the total solar eclipse as it is happening in the user’s area; and a countdown clock to the next upcoming eclipse.

The “Rumble Map” gives the user the sensation of “feeling” the Sun during an eclipse. Our technology translates images of key eclipse features into a series of unique frequency modulated tones that map out variations in light and dark as the user explores the image with their fingertips. These tones are specially designed to make the user’s mobile device shake, or rumble, in response to the changes.

After the eclipse, the Eclipse Soundscapes app will provide access to a database of soundscape recordings from U.S. National Parks and other urban and rural locations so that users can experience how eclipses change the behavior of different species, including humans. During the next five years, the app will expand to include other eclipses and astronomical objects of interest giving people who are blind and visually impaired – and everyone else – a new way to engage with the universe around them.

Join Pete Lane as he walks you through a wonderful experience with the Eclipse Soundscapes Project App.

The Eclipse Soundscapes Project app is specially designed so that people who are blind and visually impaired can share in the awe and wonder of astronomical events in real time with their sighted peers.

The app is a joint effort between The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO), NASA’s Heliophysics Education Consortium (HEC), the National Center for Accessible Media (NCAM), and the National Park Service (NPS). Features include an interactive “Rumble map”; audio descriptions of key features of the eclipse; a play-by-play description of the total solar eclipse as it is happening in the user’s area; and a countdown clock to the next upcoming eclipse.

The “Rumble Map” gives the user the sensation of “feeling” the Sun during an eclipse. Our technology translates images of key eclipse features into a series of unique frequency modulated tones that map out variations in light and dark as the user explores the image with their fingertips. These tones are specially designed to make the user’s mobile device shake, or rumble, in response to the changes.

After the eclipse, the Eclipse Soundscapes app will provide access to a database of soundscape recordings from U.S. National Parks and other urban and rural locations so that users can experience how eclipses change the behavior of different species, including humans. During the next five years, the app will expand to include other eclipses and astronomical objects of interest giving people who are blind and visually impaired – and everyone else – a new way to engage with the universe around them.

]]>16:55no1304fullThat Blind Tech Show: Alexa Siri, That's Not a Name I Can Respond ToAlexa Siri, That's Not a Name I Can Respond ToWed, 16 Aug 2017 04:24:17 +0000That Blind Tech Show: Alexa Siri, That's Not a Name I Can Respond To

Co-Host Bryan Fischler along with guest Co-Host John Panarese from MacForTheBlind, talk the latest news from a Blindness perspective. From Alexa Siri, to disappearing Ubers, Nanos and Shuffles, to Artificial Intelligence on Artificial Intelligence, That Blind Tech Show covers it all and more. Did you hear about the rising Anker? And what about DickBars? Hmmm, Bryan commits and goes Aira! Listen in as Bryan and John talk the talk and take down Buffalo, sort of.

]]>That Blind Tech Show: Alexa Siri, That's Not a Name I Can Respond To

Co-Host Bryan Fischler along with guest Co-Host John Panarese from MacForTheBlind, talk the latest news from a Blindness perspective. From Alexa Siri, to disappearing Ubers, Nanos and Shuffles, to Artificial Intelligence on Artificial Intelligence, That Blind Tech Show covers it all and more. Did you hear about the rising Anker? And what about DickBars? Hmmm, Bryan commits and goes Aira! Listen in as Bryan and John talk the talk and take down Buffalo, sort of.

]]>45:55no1303fullAira Presents: A Conversation with Tiffany Manosh - Travel, Tech, Disney and CollegeAira Presents: A Conversation with Tiffany Manosh - Travel, Tech, Disney and CollegeMon, 14 Aug 2017 16:58:01 +0000Blind Abilities offers another in their Aira presentation series from the National Federation of the Blind 2017 national convention in Orlando, Florida. Join Pete Lane and Jeff Thompson as they interview Tiffany Manosh who shares her passions: her passion for technology, for travel and her passion for Aira, the visual interpreter for the blind. Jeff caught up with Tiffany in the hotel during the convention, but Pete had to complete the interview afterwards via Skype. In both portions of the interview, Tiffany, an Instructional Assistant at American River College, in Sacramento, California, shows her enthusiasm for all things tech, her love for cruising with her Mom, visiting Walt Disney World and her belief in Aira, the smart glasses which offer so much for blind and visually impaired users. Sit back and enjoy this 31 minute Blind Abilities production, brought to you by Aira.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>Blind Abilities offers another in their Aira presentation series from the National Federation of the Blind 2017 national convention in Orlando, Florida. Join Pete Lane and Jeff Thompson as they interview Tiffany Manosh who shares her passions: her passion for technology, for travel and her passion for Aira, the visual interpreter for the blind. Jeff caught up with Tiffany in the hotel during the convention, but Pete had to complete the interview afterwards via Skype. In both portions of the interview, Tiffany, an Instructional Assistant at American River College, in Sacramento, California, shows her enthusiasm for all things tech, her love for cruising with her Mom, visiting Walt Disney World and her belief in Aira, the smart glasses which offer so much for blind and visually impaired users. Sit back and enjoy this 31 minute Blind Abilities production, brought to you by Aira.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

With the huge response from the Blindness community the Seeing AI app available in the App Store has spread like wild fire and people are excited about the possibilities coming from the Microsoft Accessibility teams.

Bryan Fischler, host of the That Blind Tech Show and Jeff Thompson from Blind Abilities have a conversation with Anirudh Koul and Saqib Shaikh, two developers from the Microsoft Accessibility team working on the Seeing AI app.

You will hear about the Hackathon where the seed was planted and how the team uses the users feedback to determine the changes and improvements that have been coming fast and steady.

The Seeing AI app is a project and uses artificial intelligence is some of the featured channels.

Short Text channel is like taking a glance at your mail. The built in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) picks up the text through the camera and begins reading instantly.

The Document Channel does more traditional OCR work and has audio indicators to help assist centering the page content.

The Product Channel has an audible signal to assist in location the bar code and the signal speeds up when closing in on the bar code with the iPhone’s camera. The picture is taken automatically and the database is searched and the data is read to the user. Instructions as well as ingredients are also read if available.

The Person Channel allows the user to take pictures of individuals and tag them as the facial recognition feature will know and say that person’s name when using the camera and glancing around the area. This is where AI comes in.

The Seeing AI app will also describe the person and guess the age.

The Scene Beta Channel is a feature that will describe the photo taken such as a bench in a park, or a person walking a dog.

Photos can be taken, or imported from the camera roll to have the app describe the image.

They say this app in in it’s infancy and there is a lot more to come.

One feature coming to the Seeing AI app that was disclosed is a Money Identifier.

Yes, this is a Swiss Army Knife of an App.

You can follow the Microsoft Accessibility team on Twitter @MSFTEnable

With the huge response from the Blindness community the Seeing AI app available in the App Store has spread like wild fire and people are excited about the possibilities coming from the Microsoft Accessibility teams.

Bryan Fischler, host of the That Blind Tech Show and Jeff Thompson from Blind Abilities have a conversation with Anirudh Koul and Saqib Shaikh, two developers from the Microsoft Accessibility team working on the Seeing AI app.

You will hear about the Hackathon where the seed was planted and how the team uses the users feedback to determine the changes and improvements that have been coming fast and steady.

The Seeing AI app is a project and uses artificial intelligence is some of the featured channels.

Short Text channel is like taking a glance at your mail. The built in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) picks up the text through the camera and begins reading instantly.

The Document Channel does more traditional OCR work and has audio indicators to help assist centering the page content.

The Product Channel has an audible signal to assist in location the bar code and the signal speeds up when closing in on the bar code with the iPhone’s camera. The picture is taken automatically and the database is searched and the data is read to the user. Instructions as well as ingredients are also read if available.

The Person Channel allows the user to take pictures of individuals and tag them as the facial recognition feature will know and say that person’s name when using the camera and glancing around the area. This is where AI comes in.

The Seeing AI app will also describe the person and guess the age.

The Scene Beta Channel is a feature that will describe the photo taken such as a bench in a park, or a person walking a dog.

Photos can be taken, or imported from the camera roll to have the app describe the image.

They say this app in in it’s infancy and there is a lot more to come.

One feature coming to the Seeing AI app that was disclosed is a Money Identifier.

Yes, this is a Swiss Army Knife of an App.

You can follow the Microsoft Accessibility team on Twitter @MSFTEnable

]]>19:01no1301fullRachel Hastings: A Success Story -- From High School to College to the Workplace. Step by Step.Rachel hastings: A Success Story -- From High School to College to the Workplace. Step by Step.Wed, 09 Aug 2017 00:45:52 +0000Rachel Hastings: A Success Story -- From High School to College to the Workplace. Step by Step.

Rachel Hastings is a Certified Music Therapist and she tells us how State Services for the Blind along with her Special Education teachers and Teachers for the blind/Visually Impaired worked seamlessly in her transitions from high school to college and to her dream job, a Music Therapist.

Rachel attended STP, a 2-week summer program, aka Student Transition program, and how her involvement with the program opened her mind to the possibilities for her future.

From orientation and Mobility to career research to job applications and job interview strategies, Rachel explains how State Services became her vehicle for achieving a successful transition into the workplace.

Rachel is an avid runner and explains how she runs and is now training for the St. Paul marathon. Running 30 miles a week, she thinks she's about ready.

Join Rachel Hastings as she walks us through her transition stages, chats about her hobbies and gives us great advice about attitude and self-determination.

]]>Rachel Hastings: A Success Story -- From High School to College to the Workplace. Step by Step.

Rachel Hastings is a Certified Music Therapist and she tells us how State Services for the Blind along with her Special Education teachers and Teachers for the blind/Visually Impaired worked seamlessly in her transitions from high school to college and to her dream job, a Music Therapist.

Rachel attended STP, a 2-week summer program, aka Student Transition program, and how her involvement with the program opened her mind to the possibilities for her future.

From orientation and Mobility to career research to job applications and job interview strategies, Rachel explains how State Services became her vehicle for achieving a successful transition into the workplace.

Rachel is an avid runner and explains how she runs and is now training for the St. Paul marathon. Running 30 miles a week, she thinks she's about ready.

Join Rachel Hastings as she walks us through her transition stages, chats about her hobbies and gives us great advice about attitude and self-determination.

]]>32:58no1300fullPete and Patrick Lane On the Air with Aira, the Blinded Veterans, and Blind AbilitiesPete and Patrick Lane On the Air with Aira, the Blinded Veterans, and Blind AbilitiesFri, 04 Aug 2017 04:37:47 +0000A brief interview that Aira Agent Analyst, Patrick Lane and Pete Lane did on a local Jacksonville radio show. They talked about Aira, of course, and a bit about The Blind Abilities podcast.

Also on the show is an interview with Al Avina, Executive Director of the Blinded Veterans Association. The national BVA conference will be held in Jacksonville the week of August 14 - 18th. Aira will be there in full force and Pete Lane of the Blind Abilities Team will bring you and keep you up to date with the latest out of Jacksonville and the Blinded Veterans Association.

We hope you enjoy.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>A brief interview that Aira Agent Analyst, Patrick Lane and Pete Lane did on a local Jacksonville radio show. They talked about Aira, of course, and a bit about The Blind Abilities podcast.

Also on the show is an interview with Al Avina, Executive Director of the Blinded Veterans Association. The national BVA conference will be held in Jacksonville the week of August 14 - 18th. Aira will be there in full force and Pete Lane of the Blind Abilities Team will bring you and keep you up to date with the latest out of Jacksonville and the Blinded Veterans Association.

We hope you enjoy.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>11:50no1299fullThat Blind Tech Show: I Don't Like Spam and I Don't Want It On My Phone!I Don't Like Spam and I Don't Want It On My Phone!Thu, 03 Aug 2017 16:43:14 +0000Episode 2 of the That Blind Tech Show, I Don’t Like Span and I don’t Want It On My Phone!

Brian Fischler is joined by Allison Hartley as they talk about the latest in Tech News as it relates to the Blindness Community.

Here is a list of topics as they happened on the 2nd Episode of That Blind Tech Show.

Blind abilities presents another in their series from the national Federation of the blind (NFB) convention for 2017. Join Cheryl Spencer as she features Key2Access, with their unique approach towards modifying street crossing signals, and razz Mobility, with their non-smart cellular phone for folks who wish to steer clear of smart phone technology. Key2Access has worked with four cities in Canada to alter street signals to allow BVI pedestrians to access crossing buttons using their accessible iOS app, and Raz Mobility has developed a completely accessible cellular phone with tactile buttons, offering text messaging and affordable calling plans

Cheryl gets up close and personal with these two disparate yet relevant contributors in the world of blindness technology. Be sure to check them out on the web.

Blind abilities presents another in their series from the national Federation of the blind (NFB) convention for 2017. Join Cheryl Spencer as she features Key2Access, with their unique approach towards modifying street crossing signals, and razz Mobility, with their non-smart cellular phone for folks who wish to steer clear of smart phone technology. Key2Access has worked with four cities in Canada to alter street signals to allow BVI pedestrians to access crossing buttons using their accessible iOS app, and Raz Mobility has developed a completely accessible cellular phone with tactile buttons, offering text messaging and affordable calling plans

Cheryl gets up close and personal with these two disparate yet relevant contributors in the world of blindness technology. Be sure to check them out on the web.

Initiative is to raise $40 per mile to assist 3600 people transform their lives with a surgery for cataracts. I posted a message from his blog page below so you can read all about his A Line of Sight fund raiser.

Chris talks about his mother’s commitment to “No MollyCuddle” and how she prepared him and his siblings for the future.

Chris talks about the ride and being blind and gives Transition age students some advice. Chris himself being a college graduate has also succeeded in business and his words are something to listen to.

I did not know Chris before; however, I have been reading his blogs on the ALineOfSight.org.uk and have enjoyed his writings and humor.

Chris and his team passed through Minnesota and I just had to reach out and believe me, I am glad that I got a chance to share a few moments with Chris Mairs.

I have been registered blind since the age of 18 and turned 60 in early 2017. Although my condition, degenerative RP, is not treatable, I have been incredibly fortunate to live in the developed world. My education, my career and my personal life have all provided me with immense opportunities in a life that has been filled with pleasure and purpose.

However, most of the 39 million blind people in the developing world are not so lucky. Blindness is an isolating and frightening disability with crippling economic impact. The family of someone without sight loses two incomes, one from the blind person themselves and one from the family member who becomes their full time carer.

But the most common cause of sight loss in the world, cataracts, can be cured at a cost of only £30 or $40 per surgical intervention.

I cannot boil the ocean, nor can I save the world, but with your help we will transform 3,600 lives. On June 18th 2017 I am riding a tandem across America from Oregon to New Hampshire. By raising £30/$40 for every mile we ride, we will restore sight to 3,600 people through low cost, highly effective cataract surgery undertaken by our partner See International.

Why 3,600 interventions? Two simple reasons:

•I am pledging to cure 60 people of blindness for each year or my life so far.

•This just happens to be the approximate distance from Astoria, Oregon to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Averaging somewhat over 60 miles a day, we will complete the ride in a little under 60 days, providing a perfect backbone for my 60×60@60 pledge.

I am incredibly lucky to have 2 co-riders, James and Alastair, who will be sharing the front seat of the tandem. Alastair is in charge from Astoria to Sioux Falls, where he will step aside for fresh horses, a.k.a. James.

Initiative is to raise $40 per mile to assist 3600 people transform their lives with a surgery for cataracts. I posted a message from his blog page below so you can read all about his A Line of Sight fund raiser.

Chris talks about his mother’s commitment to “No MollyCuddle” and how she prepared him and his siblings for the future.

Chris talks about the ride and being blind and gives Transition age students some advice. Chris himself being a college graduate has also succeeded in business and his words are something to listen to.

I did not know Chris before; however, I have been reading his blogs on the ALineOfSight.org.uk and have enjoyed his writings and humor.

Chris and his team passed through Minnesota and I just had to reach out and believe me, I am glad that I got a chance to share a few moments with Chris Mairs.

I have been registered blind since the age of 18 and turned 60 in early 2017. Although my condition, degenerative RP, is not treatable, I have been incredibly fortunate to live in the developed world. My education, my career and my personal life have all provided me with immense opportunities in a life that has been filled with pleasure and purpose.

However, most of the 39 million blind people in the developing world are not so lucky. Blindness is an isolating and frightening disability with crippling economic impact. The family of someone without sight loses two incomes, one from the blind person themselves and one from the family member who becomes their full time carer.

But the most common cause of sight loss in the world, cataracts, can be cured at a cost of only £30 or $40 per surgical intervention.

I cannot boil the ocean, nor can I save the world, but with your help we will transform 3,600 lives. On June 18th 2017 I am riding a tandem across America from Oregon to New Hampshire. By raising £30/$40 for every mile we ride, we will restore sight to 3,600 people through low cost, highly effective cataract surgery undertaken by our partner See International.

Why 3,600 interventions? Two simple reasons:

•I am pledging to cure 60 people of blindness for each year or my life so far.

•This just happens to be the approximate distance from Astoria, Oregon to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Averaging somewhat over 60 miles a day, we will complete the ride in a little under 60 days, providing a perfect backbone for my 60×60@60 pledge.

I am incredibly lucky to have 2 co-riders, James and Alastair, who will be sharing the front seat of the tandem. Alastair is in charge from Astoria to Sioux Falls, where he will step aside for fresh horses, a.k.a. James.

Susan Mazrui shares her journey through education, employment and how she faced the challenges and the low expectations along the way. As director of Public Policy at AT&T, Susan works with aging and disability issues. Susan is still learning as technology keeps changing and encourages others to learn as much as they can about the tools they will need in the workplace. Susan is an Aira explorer and enjoys having instant access to information when she wants it. It’s the “small things” that Aira does that can really make a difference and like a mosquito in a King’s tent, small things can move Kings.

Join Susan Mazrui at the 2017 National Federation of the Blind convention and learn about her journey and the suggestions she has for students transitioning from high school to college and to the workplace.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

Susan Mazrui shares her journey through education, employment and how she faced the challenges and the low expectations along the way. As director of Public Policy at AT&T, Susan works with aging and disability issues. Susan is still learning as technology keeps changing and encourages others to learn as much as they can about the tools they will need in the workplace. Susan is an Aira explorer and enjoys having instant access to information when she wants it. It’s the “small things” that Aira does that can really make a difference and like a mosquito in a King’s tent, small things can move Kings.

Join Susan Mazrui at the 2017 National Federation of the Blind convention and learn about her journey and the suggestions she has for students transitioning from high school to college and to the workplace.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>20:52no1294fullAira Presents: A Conversation With John Herzog - Accessibility Solutions Engineer With AT&TFri, 21 Jul 2017 20:50:08 +0000Aira once again offers a feature presentation: A Conversation with John Herzog. John is an Accessibility Solutions Engineer with AT&T. He sits down with the Blind Abilities Team to share an in depth look at his life as a blind man: his youth, education and his time at law school. John also shares his thoughts on a variety of issues, including blindness, social interactions and Aira, the visual interpreter for the blind.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>Aira once again offers a feature presentation: A Conversation with John Herzog. John is an Accessibility Solutions Engineer with AT&T. He sits down with the Blind Abilities Team to share an in depth look at his life as a blind man: his youth, education and his time at law school. John also shares his thoughts on a variety of issues, including blindness, social interactions and Aira, the visual interpreter for the blind.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>21:08no1293fullThe Hooke Verse Records in 3D Wirelessly to Your iPhone or Android!Thu, 20 Jul 2017 05:06:38 +0000The Hooke Verse, records binaural recordings to an iPhone or Android phone without having to tether a microphone or headphone cord. Leaving you free to record in stereo as naturally as you would listen because the microphones are in the earphones!

Join Pete Lane on the convention floor as he talks to the Hooke Audio Team and learn more about this innovated and one of a kind device from Hooke Audio.

Hooke Verse is a pair of Bluetooth headphones that incorporate binaural microphones designed to capture 3D audio. Specially placed mics allow you to capture sound like you actually hear it. Once captured, Hooke Verse’s 3D audio can be experienced on any pair of headphones or two channel system, no special speakers or algorithms required. Your listeners will feel like they’re there.

With the free Hooke Audio mobile app, you can capture 3D audio wirelessly to your iOS or Android device using Hooke’s proprietary bluetooth recording codec. With the Hooke Audio recording cable, you can capture 3D audio to any device, even if they don’t have Bluetooth.

With the Hooke Verse, your videos and recordings can have professional binaural 3D audio.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>The Hooke Verse, records binaural recordings to an iPhone or Android phone without having to tether a microphone or headphone cord. Leaving you free to record in stereo as naturally as you would listen because the microphones are in the earphones!

Join Pete Lane on the convention floor as he talks to the Hooke Audio Team and learn more about this innovated and one of a kind device from Hooke Audio.

Hooke Verse is a pair of Bluetooth headphones that incorporate binaural microphones designed to capture 3D audio. Specially placed mics allow you to capture sound like you actually hear it. Once captured, Hooke Verse’s 3D audio can be experienced on any pair of headphones or two channel system, no special speakers or algorithms required. Your listeners will feel like they’re there.

With the free Hooke Audio mobile app, you can capture 3D audio wirelessly to your iOS or Android device using Hooke’s proprietary bluetooth recording codec. With the Hooke Audio recording cable, you can capture 3D audio to any device, even if they don’t have Bluetooth.

With the Hooke Verse, your videos and recordings can have professional binaural 3D audio.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>06:24no1292fullThe Harbolt Company Introduces & Demos the Accessible ChargerThu, 20 Jul 2017 00:11:09 +0000The Harbolt Company is a supplier of not only devices and accessible ones at that, Brent Harbolt educates and demonstrates the products he makes available to the Blindness community. From obscure items to gadgets that just work and are accessible, Brent gives audio descriptions and demos so you can get a good idea of the products available on the HarboltCompany.com web site.

Be sure to check out all the many products available on-line and all the deals available on the highly accessible HarboltCompany.com site.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>The Harbolt Company is a supplier of not only devices and accessible ones at that, Brent Harbolt educates and demonstrates the products he makes available to the Blindness community. From obscure items to gadgets that just work and are accessible, Brent gives audio descriptions and demos so you can get a good idea of the products available on the HarboltCompany.com web site.

Be sure to check out all the many products available on-line and all the deals available on the highly accessible HarboltCompany.com site.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>15:43no1291fullAira Presents: Michael Hingson - Bringing the Thunder to AiraWed, 19 Jul 2017 19:27:52 +0000Michael Hingson talks about his employment journey and how everything he has done in his past has led him to Aira. And that is what Michael brings to his new Strategic Sales position at Aira. He is not new to Aira as he has been involved for over 2 and a half years and understands completely how Aira brings instant access to information.

Michael is well known for his Best Selling book titled, Thunder Dog. Telling the story about his experience surrounding the escape from Tower 1 during the September 11th terrorist attacks.

Join Michael Hingson at the National Federation of the Blind convention in Orlando Florida and hear about what led him to the 74th floor of Tower 1 and his journey to Aira.

]]>Michael Hingson talks about his employment journey and how everything he has done in his past has led him to Aira. And that is what Michael brings to his new Strategic Sales position at Aira. He is not new to Aira as he has been involved for over 2 and a half years and understands completely how Aira brings instant access to information.

Michael is well known for his Best Selling book titled, Thunder Dog. Telling the story about his experience surrounding the escape from Tower 1 during the September 11th terrorist attacks.

Join Michael Hingson at the National Federation of the Blind convention in Orlando Florida and hear about what led him to the 74th floor of Tower 1 and his journey to Aira.

]]>28:17no1290fullThat Blind Tech Show: Siri Moods, It’s Hard to Strangle an iPhoneWed, 19 Jul 2017 06:02:11 +0000Welcome to That Blind Tech Show presented to you by the Blind Abilities Team. We want to hear from you whether you have a question about a new tech product or app, or some advice for the blindness community. We hope this will be an interactive show that will educate, inform, and make you laugh. Write us in at ThatBlindTechShow@gmail.com and make sure to follow us on Twitter at @BlindTechShow.

And now on to the show.

Up first is an intro to what That Blind Tech Show will be. Next you won’t want to miss our discussion about the exciting new iPhone app from Microsoft, Microsoft Seeing AI.

Then it is on to NFB 17 convention coverage where Jeff Thompson was recording live.

The biggest attraction and conversation at this years convention is Aira, The Virtual Navigator for the Blind giving you instant access to information. Tune in to hear about what went down in the Aira Lounge!

HumanWare had two new devices for the attendees to consider. The not yet released, Victor Stream Trek. Combining the popular book reader with GPS.

The new Brilliant 14 iPhone Companion is a quick note taker that has refreshable braille and comes in at $995.

Orcam releases version 2.0 and Microsoft, Amazon, sprint all showed up strutting their Accessibility Help Desks.

AT&T was right next to Aira and that was no surprise as they provide the MiFi hook-up for the Aira.

The Harbolt Company brings a new one-of-a-kind accessible charger with audible and vibration feedback.

APH brought their new affordable Orbit 20 and out the door they went. 20 units sold out well before noon.

We also talk about 3D Photo Works and hands on with the Mona Lisa.

Then it is on to iOS 11 news with a conversation about Notes and scanning documents, Why does Siri hate Brian so much, and Type to Siri. Next is a discussion about our favorite topic Described Video and the latest update from Congress It’s about time!

Then we share a very sad story about what Cablevision thinks makes a good screen reader. Some companies just never will get it.

And finally, a little chit chat between Brian and Jeff about this new venture That Blind Tech Show. Enjoy, Listen, learn, and laugh!

]]>Welcome to That Blind Tech Show presented to you by the Blind Abilities Team. We want to hear from you whether you have a question about a new tech product or app, or some advice for the blindness community. We hope this will be an interactive show that will educate, inform, and make you laugh. Write us in at ThatBlindTechShow@gmail.com and make sure to follow us on Twitter at @BlindTechShow.

And now on to the show.

Up first is an intro to what That Blind Tech Show will be. Next you won’t want to miss our discussion about the exciting new iPhone app from Microsoft, Microsoft Seeing AI.

Then it is on to NFB 17 convention coverage where Jeff Thompson was recording live.

The biggest attraction and conversation at this years convention is Aira, The Virtual Navigator for the Blind giving you instant access to information. Tune in to hear about what went down in the Aira Lounge!

HumanWare had two new devices for the attendees to consider. The not yet released, Victor Stream Trek. Combining the popular book reader with GPS.

The new Brilliant 14 iPhone Companion is a quick note taker that has refreshable braille and comes in at $995.

Orcam releases version 2.0 and Microsoft, Amazon, sprint all showed up strutting their Accessibility Help Desks.

AT&T was right next to Aira and that was no surprise as they provide the MiFi hook-up for the Aira.

The Harbolt Company brings a new one-of-a-kind accessible charger with audible and vibration feedback.

APH brought their new affordable Orbit 20 and out the door they went. 20 units sold out well before noon.

We also talk about 3D Photo Works and hands on with the Mona Lisa.

Then it is on to iOS 11 news with a conversation about Notes and scanning documents, Why does Siri hate Brian so much, and Type to Siri. Next is a discussion about our favorite topic Described Video and the latest update from Congress It’s about time!

Then we share a very sad story about what Cablevision thinks makes a good screen reader. Some companies just never will get it.

And finally, a little chit chat between Brian and Jeff about this new venture That Blind Tech Show. Enjoy, Listen, learn, and laugh!

]]>56:42no1289fullNFB17 One Big Family Reunion - What Does the Convention Mean to You?Sun, 16 Jul 2017 05:41:52 +0000NFB17 One Big Family Reunion - What Does the Convention Mean to You?

The NFB Convention is held each year and will be returning next year to Orlando Florida. People come from around the world to attend the National Federation of the Blind convention and the Blind Abilities Team took great note of the community and sharing of information that happens when nearly 3,000 attendees converge upon the #1 hotel, Rosen Shingle Creek, located in the heart of Disney and major attractions. However, the biggest attraction is found right in the heart of the community of the National Federation of the Blind.

Here are just some of the wonderful attendees of NFB17 touching base on what the convention means to them.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>NFB17 One Big Family Reunion - What Does the Convention Mean to You?

The NFB Convention is held each year and will be returning next year to Orlando Florida. People come from around the world to attend the National Federation of the Blind convention and the Blind Abilities Team took great note of the community and sharing of information that happens when nearly 3,000 attendees converge upon the #1 hotel, Rosen Shingle Creek, located in the heart of Disney and major attractions. However, the biggest attraction is found right in the heart of the community of the National Federation of the Blind.

Here are just some of the wonderful attendees of NFB17 touching base on what the convention means to them.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

Dick Davis talks about Employment and the Opportunities that Adjustment To Blindness Training at Blind,Inc in Minneapolis, MN is growing and creating jobs. Dick talks about the Prep Program for transition students that are heading or already attending college.

Join Dick Davis for this very informational talk on employment opportunities and getting prepped for college.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

Dick Davis talks about Employment and the Opportunities that Adjustment To Blindness Training at Blind,Inc in Minneapolis, MN is growing and creating jobs. Dick talks about the Prep Program for transition students that are heading or already attending college.

Join Dick Davis for this very informational talk on employment opportunities and getting prepped for college.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>11:55no1287fullNFB17 Sharon Watson the 1st Aira Explorer and Joe’s Blind Abilities Shoutout!Sun, 16 Jul 2017 04:26:41 +0000Sharon Watson was the 1st Aira Explorer and is still as excited as the day she first learned about Aira and it’s solution to instant access to information. Sharon talks about how she uses her Aira glasses and how the playing field has been leveled for her. From large events to small details Sharon enjoys having instant access to information and the independence Aira has allowed her to access.

Joe talks about Blind Abilities and the iPhone101 series and how he has enjoyed learning the gestures and tips and tricks PeteNick and I have published on the BlindAbilities.com web site.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>Sharon Watson was the 1st Aira Explorer and is still as excited as the day she first learned about Aira and it’s solution to instant access to information. Sharon talks about how she uses her Aira glasses and how the playing field has been leveled for her. From large events to small details Sharon enjoys having instant access to information and the independence Aira has allowed her to access.

Joe talks about Blind Abilities and the iPhone101 series and how he has enjoyed learning the gestures and tips and tricks PeteNick and I have published on the BlindAbilities.com web site.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>07:22no1286fullNFB17 Microsoft Support Desk New App Seeing AI and the Sprint Accessibility LineFri, 14 Jul 2017 05:19:08 +0000NFB17 Microsoft Support Desk New App Seeing AI and the Sprint Accessibility Line

Microsoft Support was in the Exhibit hall and answering questions that people may be having with their software and products. Here is some contact information below.

The New app for IOS from Microsoft, Seeing AI, is what we may call a game changer for many users of apps that help in gathering info and data through the lens of the camera. Seeing Eye is like 4 apps rolled into one. It is a free app in the App store so try it out and see what artificial intelligence can do for you.

Sprint was present and talking about a convention deal and their accessibility support line. We hope you enjoy.

Disability Answer Desk

The Disability Answer Desk is where customers with disabilities get support with Microsoft Office and Windows. This includes product Issues, accessibility questions, and use of assistive technology

]]>NFB17 Microsoft Support Desk New App Seeing AI and the Sprint Accessibility Line

Microsoft Support was in the Exhibit hall and answering questions that people may be having with their software and products. Here is some contact information below.

The New app for IOS from Microsoft, Seeing AI, is what we may call a game changer for many users of apps that help in gathering info and data through the lens of the camera. Seeing Eye is like 4 apps rolled into one. It is a free app in the App store so try it out and see what artificial intelligence can do for you.

Sprint was present and talking about a convention deal and their accessibility support line. We hope you enjoy.

Disability Answer Desk

The Disability Answer Desk is where customers with disabilities get support with Microsoft Office and Windows. This includes product Issues, accessibility questions, and use of assistive technology

]]>07:00no1285fullNFB17 LeaderDogs for the Blind Has a Program for Any IndividualThu, 13 Jul 2017 18:25:19 +0000NFB17 LeaderDogs for the Blind Has a Program for Any Individual

Pete Lane hits the floor of the NFB17 Exhibit Hall floor and talks the LeaderDogs for the Blind representative about the programs they offer and how you can contact them for more information. From summer camps, to advance training, LeaderDogs has a program that fits any individual. We hope you enjoy.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

Pete Lane hits the floor of the NFB17 Exhibit Hall floor and talks the LeaderDogs for the Blind representative about the programs they offer and how you can contact them for more information. From summer camps, to advance training, LeaderDogs has a program that fits any individual. We hope you enjoy.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>06:09no1284fullNFB17 Blind Alive Is About to Launch Their New App and iFactory’s Accessible Web SitesThu, 13 Jul 2017 14:35:19 +0000NFB17 Blind Alive Is About to Launch Their New App and iFactory’s Accessible Web Sites

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>05:53no1283fullNFB17 Attending With a Guide Dog and On The Go GearThu, 13 Jul 2017 02:57:28 +0000NFB17 Attending With a Guide Dog and On The Go Gear

Attending a NFB convention with a Guide Dog may seem a bit of a wonder and Lori Thompson talks about how she does it with her Guide Dog Logan. From managing the crowds and relieving her dog, Lori enjoys navigating and going about her way with Logan -- her guide dog and companion at the NFB17 convention.

You will also here from Julie Johnson, owner of On The Go, which sells Guide and Service dog Gear. We hope you enjoy.

. We hope you enjoy.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

Attending a NFB convention with a Guide Dog may seem a bit of a wonder and Lori Thompson talks about how she does it with her Guide Dog Logan. From managing the crowds and relieving her dog, Lori enjoys navigating and going about her way with Logan -- her guide dog and companion at the NFB17 convention.

You will also here from Julie Johnson, owner of On The Go, which sells Guide and Service dog Gear. We hope you enjoy.

. We hope you enjoy.

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

The Blind Abilities Coverage of the #NFB17 is sponsored by Aira. You can find out all about Aira on the web at www.Aira.io and on Twitter @airaio

Jeff Thompson and Pete Lane cover the grounds at the NFB17 convention and talk to attendees and exhibitors. Pete Lane caught up with a representative of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and discussed what the EEOC can do for you as a person who is B/VI.

. We hope you enjoy..

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

The Blind Abilities Coverage of the #NFB17 is sponsored by Aira. You can find out all about Aira on the web at www.Aira.io and on Twitter @airaio

Jeff Thompson and Pete Lane cover the grounds at the NFB17 convention and talk to attendees and exhibitors. Pete Lane caught up with a representative of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and discussed what the EEOC can do for you as a person who is B/VI.

. We hope you enjoy..

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>07:03no1281fullNFB17 Exhibits Open Today! What the NFB17 Means to You and a 3D Photo Works PrecastTue, 11 Jul 2017 14:37:34 +0000NFB17 Exhibits Open Today! What the NFB17 Means to You and a 3D Photo Works Precast

The Blind Abilities Coverage of the #NFB17 is sponsored by Aira. You can find out all about Aira on the web at www.Aira.io and on Twitter @airaio

Jeff Thompson and Pete Lane cover the grounds at the NFB17 convention and talk to attendees about what the NFB convention means to them. We also include a cast from the past from 3D Photo Works as they will be in their exhibit booth today. We hope you enjoy..

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>NFB17 Exhibits Open Today! What the NFB17 Means to You and a 3D Photo Works Precast

The Blind Abilities Coverage of the #NFB17 is sponsored by Aira. You can find out all about Aira on the web at www.Aira.io and on Twitter @airaio

Jeff Thompson and Pete Lane cover the grounds at the NFB17 convention and talk to attendees about what the NFB convention means to them. We also include a cast from the past from 3D Photo Works as they will be in their exhibit booth today. We hope you enjoy..

Explore your world

like never before

From exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants in the city, to traveling the globe - Aira empowers the blind to experience their world and surroundings like never before.

Accessible devices

Aira's platform works on wearable devices such as Google Glass and Vuzix that can be paired with your smartphones.

Real-time request

The tiny camera mounted on your wearable device provides instant feedback so Aira Agents can safely guide you with any activity.

Certified agents

Our network of trained Aira Agents, who could even be one of your family or friends, are able to assist you whenever and wherever.

]]>10:50no1279fullEye-Link: Helping People Gain Access to the Accessible Tools They Have Been DeniedFri, 07 Jul 2017 02:53:16 +0000Eye-Link: Helping People Gain Access to the Accessible Tools They Have Been Denied

Eye-Link is an organization that was founded by Jim Justesen. He attended a Blindness training center in Minneapolis, Vision Loss Resources, and took note of the high cost of technology and the low income of his classmates. Knowing all too well that this was not isolated to just this center, Jim sought to help the situation and founded Eye-Link in 2000. With the passion of the Eye-Link Board and the volunteers, Eye-Link have been providingBlind/visually Impaired people with access to equipment that allows them to enhance their opportunities and enrich their quality of life. Partnering with State Services, eye-Link provides an option when all else has failed.

Seniors do not have the same funding as those clients aiming for the work force and technology and accessibility may not be in the works at your State Services. That is where the partnership with Eye’Link brings another hope of opportunity for those most in need.

]]>Eye-Link: Helping People Gain Access to the Accessible Tools They Have Been Denied

Eye-Link is an organization that was founded by Jim Justesen. He attended a Blindness training center in Minneapolis, Vision Loss Resources, and took note of the high cost of technology and the low income of his classmates. Knowing all too well that this was not isolated to just this center, Jim sought to help the situation and founded Eye-Link in 2000. With the passion of the Eye-Link Board and the volunteers, Eye-Link have been providingBlind/visually Impaired people with access to equipment that allows them to enhance their opportunities and enrich their quality of life. Partnering with State Services, eye-Link provides an option when all else has failed.

Seniors do not have the same funding as those clients aiming for the work force and technology and accessibility may not be in the works at your State Services. That is where the partnership with Eye’Link brings another hope of opportunity for those most in need.

]]>05:35no1277fullAira Goes Live! Instant Access to Information Demonstrated in Jacksonville FloridaFri, 30 Jun 2017 01:13:06 +0000Aira is demonstrated and put to use on the River City Live TV in Jacksonville, Florida. Pete Lane gets instant access to information from a Aira agent, Patrick Lane, in realtime as he navigates and sidewalks, streets and stores. Join the River City Live TV cast and hear about Aira and the benefits that you could be accessing today!

]]>Aira is demonstrated and put to use on the River City Live TV in Jacksonville, Florida. Pete Lane gets instant access to information from a Aira agent, Patrick Lane, in realtime as he navigates and sidewalks, streets and stores. Join the River City Live TV cast and hear about Aira and the benefits that you could be accessing today!

]]>07:04no1276fullKevin Key Rises up from His Vision Loss - Creating Opportunities in the Work PlaceMon, 26 Jun 2017 12:33:38 +0000Kevin Key Rises up from His Vision Loss - Creating Opportunities in the Work Place

Kevin Key suffered a rare illness that left him with Vision Loss just 3 years ago. Today Kevin has fought back and is now a consultant with the city of Memphis in Tennessee advocating and educating the Business owners, managers and city officials about disabilities and creating opportunities.

Kevin has accepted his blindness and has taken the time to tell us about his journey, how his parents set an example for him and how he wants to improve the opportunities for people with disabilities in the workforce.

From being an elected official and now a consultant to elected officials Kevin is taking it day by day and embracing the challenges with optimism and a positive approach while helping others in similar situations. Yes, Kevin may be sitting on the other side of the table today, and his experience on both sides makes his spot at the table a benefit for all people with disabilities. It is nice to know that Kevin’s voice is part of the disability awareness conversation.

]]>Kevin Key Rises up from His Vision Loss - Creating Opportunities in the Work Place

Kevin Key suffered a rare illness that left him with Vision Loss just 3 years ago. Today Kevin has fought back and is now a consultant with the city of Memphis in Tennessee advocating and educating the Business owners, managers and city officials about disabilities and creating opportunities.

Kevin has accepted his blindness and has taken the time to tell us about his journey, how his parents set an example for him and how he wants to improve the opportunities for people with disabilities in the workforce.

From being an elected official and now a consultant to elected officials Kevin is taking it day by day and embracing the challenges with optimism and a positive approach while helping others in similar situations. Yes, Kevin may be sitting on the other side of the table today, and his experience on both sides makes his spot at the table a benefit for all people with disabilities. It is nice to know that Kevin’s voice is part of the disability awareness conversation.

]]>29:29no1275fulliPhone101: The 4-Finger Single Tap: A Real Time Saver!Sun, 25 Jun 2017 15:59:18 +0000iPhone101: The 4-Finger Single Tap: A Real Time Saver!

Blind Abilities presents another installment in its iPhone 101 series involving Voiceover gestures. As we draw near the end of our gestures presentations, Pete reviews the 4-finger single tap. This gesture can be somewhat difficult to perform since its kind of tight having to fit four fingers onto your iPhone screen, especially when in portrait mode (upright with your Home button at the bottom). Pete shares a tip where he turns his phone sideways, with the Home button on the left. In this position, he can easily fit his four fingers across the screen. Listen in as Pete discusses how he adjusts the direction of his gestures to fit this position. The 4-finger tap is a serious time saver as it gets you to the top or bottom of a screen, a web site, or a list such as emails, podcasts or tweets in your Twitter feed with a single tap. Coming up, we’ll review some of those VO gestures that we haven’t yet covered in our 1, 2, 3 or 4 finger gesture presentations. And after that, stay tuned cause there’s plenty more coming! Be sure to share any questions, comments or suggestions with our Team. And let us know if we’ve missed any hidden gestures or uses for our single-finger double tap gesture. We’ve already heard from some listeners about one or two applications that we failed to mention. We’ll be covering those, and thanking those folks who dropped us a line in our next podcast!

Blind Abilities presents another installment in its iPhone 101 series involving Voiceover gestures. As we draw near the end of our gestures presentations, Pete reviews the 4-finger single tap. This gesture can be somewhat difficult to perform since its kind of tight having to fit four fingers onto your iPhone screen, especially when in portrait mode (upright with your Home button at the bottom). Pete shares a tip where he turns his phone sideways, with the Home button on the left. In this position, he can easily fit his four fingers across the screen. Listen in as Pete discusses how he adjusts the direction of his gestures to fit this position. The 4-finger tap is a serious time saver as it gets you to the top or bottom of a screen, a web site, or a list such as emails, podcasts or tweets in your Twitter feed with a single tap. Coming up, we’ll review some of those VO gestures that we haven’t yet covered in our 1, 2, 3 or 4 finger gesture presentations. And after that, stay tuned cause there’s plenty more coming! Be sure to share any questions, comments or suggestions with our Team. And let us know if we’ve missed any hidden gestures or uses for our single-finger double tap gesture. We’ve already heard from some listeners about one or two applications that we failed to mention. We’ll be covering those, and thanking those folks who dropped us a line in our next podcast!

]]>06:43no1273fulliPhone101: VO Gestures Part 4 - Exploring The World of the Single-Finger Double-Tap and HoldSat, 17 Jun 2017 23:57:58 +0000iPhone101: VO Gestures Part 4 - Exploring The World of the Single-Finger Double-Tap and Hold

Pete Lane and Nick D’Ambrosio present another installment in the iPhone 101 series involving Voiceover gestures. This episode explores the many ways we can use the Single-finger double-tap and Hold gesture. Ranging from several uses in Safari, the iPhone web browser, and sending audio messages in the Messages app, to Fast-forwarding and Rewinding music, Youtube videos or audio books in the player screens of your various audio apps, this gesture is one to learn. Join Pete and Nick with this comprehensive, yet concise presentation of the Single-finger double-tap and Hold gesture!

]]>iPhone101: VO Gestures Part 4 - Exploring The World of the Single-Finger Double-Tap and Hold

Pete Lane and Nick D’Ambrosio present another installment in the iPhone 101 series involving Voiceover gestures. This episode explores the many ways we can use the Single-finger double-tap and Hold gesture. Ranging from several uses in Safari, the iPhone web browser, and sending audio messages in the Messages app, to Fast-forwarding and Rewinding music, Youtube videos or audio books in the player screens of your various audio apps, this gesture is one to learn. Join Pete and Nick with this comprehensive, yet concise presentation of the Single-finger double-tap and Hold gesture!

]]>15:23no1272fullHumanWare Brailliant BI14 for the iPhone and Greg Stilson’s Aira ExperienceThu, 15 Jun 2017 14:41:33 +0000Greg Stilson, senior Product Manager at HumanWare, talks about the new Brailliant BI14 Braille display and how it is a perfect fit for the mobile iPhone user.

Greg talks about his Aira explorer experiences and gives us an overview of his nearly 11 years at HumanWare.

Join Greg and Jeff Thompson of the Blind Abilities team and learn about the latest from HumanWare, their parent company, Greg’s virtual navigational journeys with Aira and what’s this about a Hammock?

•Brailliant Sync ensures notes taken on the BI14 are available everywhere!

•15 - 20 hours of battery life

•Size: 166x100x23 [mm]

•Weight: 285 grams, 0.63 lbs

Smart things come in small packages

In today’s fast-paced world, vision-impaired professionals and students need a device that lets them stay connected and stay productive on the go. Our latest innovation? The smart and compact Brailliant BI14. Our smallest braille display yet, it’s designed for ultimate efficiency without sacrificing ergonomics or comfort. So you can stay on track anytime, anywhere.

Stay on track when you’re on the go

Designed to boost productivity whether you’re at the office or out and about, the Brailliant BI14 boasts cutting-edge intelligence and innovative features made with the mobile professional in mind.

•Rugged design made for mobility

•Stable connectivity across multiple devices

•Small and light to fit easily into your jacket or bag

•Compact design with maximum comfort—type easily for hours on the ergonomic braille keyboard

•Features 14 high quality braille cells with cursor routers (the same used on both our Brailliant and BrailleNote devices)

•Navigation joystick that makes it easier than ever to use your paired Apple device—simply flick the joystick to mimic touchscreen swiping

•Micro USB for charging and connection to PC

•Up to 20 hours of battery life

Connect to your favorite devices in seconds

From daily commutes to business trips, staying connected when you’re on the move is more important than ever. That’s why we’ve designed the Brailliant BI14 to pair instantly with iOS devices, so you never have to miss an email, deadline or conference call again.

You can connect your BI14 with up to five iOS devices at once with Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) pairing. Simply unlock your iPhone or laptop and VoiceOver will instantly notify your BI14, translating all of your data into braille in real time.

Your BI14 even comes with a USB connection so you can stay charged on the go and keep braille at your fingertips anytime, anywhere.

•To sync your notes with your other devices, simply download the Brailliant Sync app from the Apple App Store and set up your email account.

•Next time you pair your BI14 with another device, your notes will be automatically synchronized.

•Access them in your iPhone Notes app or your Outlook Notes folder, along with any other device you have connected to your email account.

•If you want to take notes on another device, just make sure you’re connected to your email account and they will be automatically synched with your BI14.

Internal intelligence

The Brailliant BI14 was designed to be as user friendly as it is intelligent. A simple switch on the back of the device lets you know whether you’re using the Brailliant’s internal applications or if you have the device set to control other paired devices such as your iOS device.

With or without a pairing to an iOS device, the BI14 makes it easier than ever to:

•Take notes in a meeting or class with the internal notes application

•Keep track of time thanks to the internal clock

•Time how long tasks take with the stopwatch application

•And much more.

Mobility made easy

With its innovative and comprehensive family of braille display devices, HumanWare is changing the way people who are blind communicate, study and work. Now with the launch of the compact and affordable Brailliant BI14, you can experience cutting-edge braille technology that keeps you connected like never

•Brailliant Sync ensures notes taken on the BI14 are available everywhere!

•15 - 20 hours of battery life

•Size: 166x100x23 [mm]

•Weight: 285 grams, 0.63 lbs

Smart things come in small packages

In today’s fast-paced world, vision-impaired professionals and students need a device that lets them stay connected and stay productive on the go. Our latest innovation? The smart and compact Brailliant BI14. Our smallest braille display yet, it’s designed for ultimate efficiency without sacrificing ergonomics or comfort. So you can stay on track anytime, anywhere.

Stay on track when you’re on the go

Designed to boost productivity whether you’re at the office or out and about, the Brailliant BI14 boasts cutting-edge intelligence and innovative features made with the mobile professional in mind.

•Rugged design made for mobility

•Stable connectivity across multiple devices

•Small and light to fit easily into your jacket or bag

•Compact design with maximum comfort—type easily for hours on the ergonomic braille keyboard

•Features 14 high quality braille cells with cursor routers (the same used on both our Brailliant and BrailleNote devices)

•Navigation joystick that makes it easier than ever to use your paired Apple device—simply flick the joystick to mimic touchscreen swiping

•Micro USB for charging and connection to PC

•Up to 20 hours of battery life

Connect to your favorite devices in seconds

From daily commutes to business trips, staying connected when you’re on the move is more important than ever. That’s why we’ve designed the Brailliant BI14 to pair instantly with iOS devices, so you never have to miss an email, deadline or conference call again.

You can connect your BI14 with up to five iOS devices at once with Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) pairing. Simply unlock your iPhone or laptop and VoiceOver will instantly notify your BI14, translating all of your data into braille in real time.

Your BI14 even comes with a USB connection so you can stay charged on the go and keep braille at your fingertips anytime, anywhere.

•To sync your notes with your other devices, simply download the Brailliant Sync app from the Apple App Store and set up your email account.

•Next time you pair your BI14 with another device, your notes will be automatically synchronized.

•Access them in your iPhone Notes app or your Outlook Notes folder, along with any other device you have connected to your email account.

•If you want to take notes on another device, just make sure you’re connected to your email account and they will be automatically synched with your BI14.

Internal intelligence

The Brailliant BI14 was designed to be as user friendly as it is intelligent. A simple switch on the back of the device lets you know whether you’re using the Brailliant’s internal applications or if you have the device set to control other paired devices such as your iOS device.

With or without a pairing to an iOS device, the BI14 makes it easier than ever to:

•Take notes in a meeting or class with the internal notes application

•Keep track of time thanks to the internal clock

•Time how long tasks take with the stopwatch application

•And much more.

Mobility made easy

With its innovative and comprehensive family of braille display devices, HumanWare is changing the way people who are blind communicate, study and work. Now with the launch of the compact and affordable Brailliant BI14, you can experience cutting-edge braille technology that keeps you connected like never

Public Relations Director for the National Federation of the Blind, Chris Danielsen, joins Jeff Thompson of the Blind Abilities Team to talk about the recent lawsuit filed in California regarding the accessibility of the Greyhound Bus web site and the Greyhound Application for the smart phone. This is new territory to include the App in the mix as previous cases involved access only to the web site.

Today, as technology keeps moving forward and our shopping habits adjust towards the convenience afforded to us by companies insisting we get their app, maybe this lawsuit will set a precedence for accessibility to be considered in apps so everybody can have the same opportunities in the same space as everyone else.

San Francisco (June 12, 2017): In February of 2015 Tina Thomas, who is blind, was planning a trip from her home in Los Angeles to Las Vegas to visit family and friends. She tried to book the trip on Greyhound.com, but her text-to-speech software couldn't interpret Greyhound's website. She called Greyhound to book her trip, explaining that she could not use the website, but Greyhound still charged her a "convenience fee" for booking by phone. She tried to use the website again earlier this year, but the experience had not improved.

Ms. Thomas and four other blind Californians, along with the National Federation of the Blind, have now sued Greyhound in federal district court. The lawsuit alleges that Greyhound has designed its website and app so that they cannot be used by the blind. This violates the Americans with Disabilities Act and state laws, the lawsuit says.

Blind people use screen reader software that converts the content of websites or apps into speech or Braille. This software can easily read text, but it cannot interpret pictures, graphics, and elements like forms and menus if they are not coded properly.

The Worldwide Web Consortium has published in-depth guidelines on how to make websites compatible with screen readers, known as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0, Level AA). Apple and Google have also published accessibility guidelines for apps designed for the iPhone and Android smart phones, respectively. Other major transportation providers, such as Southwest Airlines, Amtrak, and the ride-sharing services Uber and Lyft, have websites or apps that blind people can use to book travel. But Greyhound has not made the needed changes to its website or app, despite several requests from blind people and advocates.

The lawsuit may be certified as a class action if the court approves. The suit seeks an injunction requiring Greyhound to make the needed changes to its website and mobile app. The case is National Federation of the Blind et al v. Greyhound Lines, Inc. et al, case number 3:17-cv-03368. The plaintiffs are represented by Timothy Elder of the TRE Legal Practice, www.trelegal.com, and by Lisa Ells and Michael Nunez of Rosen Bien Galvan & Grunfeld, www.rbgg.com. Attorneys for the plaintiffs are interested in speaking with any blind individuals who have been unable to use the Greyhound mobile app or website with their screen-reader or who have been charged convenience fees for booking tickets over the telephone.

"Without the ability to drive, blind people need travel alternatives like Greyhound," said Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the blind. "It's mystifying, not to mention unlawful, that Greyhound makes it impossible for us to book trips in the same ways everyone else can. Worse yet, Greyhound charges us extra for the convenience of using the only booking methods that work for us, the phone or the ticket counter at the bus station. Paying for Greyhound’s discrimination against us is offensive and this unequal treatment will not be left unchallenged. "

]]>Chris Danielsen Talks About the Blind Californians and the NFB Suing Greyhound

Public Relations Director for the National Federation of the Blind, Chris Danielsen, joins Jeff Thompson of the Blind Abilities Team to talk about the recent lawsuit filed in California regarding the accessibility of the Greyhound Bus web site and the Greyhound Application for the smart phone. This is new territory to include the App in the mix as previous cases involved access only to the web site.

Today, as technology keeps moving forward and our shopping habits adjust towards the convenience afforded to us by companies insisting we get their app, maybe this lawsuit will set a precedence for accessibility to be considered in apps so everybody can have the same opportunities in the same space as everyone else.

San Francisco (June 12, 2017): In February of 2015 Tina Thomas, who is blind, was planning a trip from her home in Los Angeles to Las Vegas to visit family and friends. She tried to book the trip on Greyhound.com, but her text-to-speech software couldn't interpret Greyhound's website. She called Greyhound to book her trip, explaining that she could not use the website, but Greyhound still charged her a "convenience fee" for booking by phone. She tried to use the website again earlier this year, but the experience had not improved.

Ms. Thomas and four other blind Californians, along with the National Federation of the Blind, have now sued Greyhound in federal district court. The lawsuit alleges that Greyhound has designed its website and app so that they cannot be used by the blind. This violates the Americans with Disabilities Act and state laws, the lawsuit says.

Blind people use screen reader software that converts the content of websites or apps into speech or Braille. This software can easily read text, but it cannot interpret pictures, graphics, and elements like forms and menus if they are not coded properly.

The Worldwide Web Consortium has published in-depth guidelines on how to make websites compatible with screen readers, known as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0, Level AA). Apple and Google have also published accessibility guidelines for apps designed for the iPhone and Android smart phones, respectively. Other major transportation providers, such as Southwest Airlines, Amtrak, and the ride-sharing services Uber and Lyft, have websites or apps that blind people can use to book travel. But Greyhound has not made the needed changes to its website or app, despite several requests from blind people and advocates.

The lawsuit may be certified as a class action if the court approves. The suit seeks an injunction requiring Greyhound to make the needed changes to its website and mobile app. The case is National Federation of the Blind et al v. Greyhound Lines, Inc. et al, case number 3:17-cv-03368. The plaintiffs are represented by Timothy Elder of the TRE Legal Practice, www.trelegal.com, and by Lisa Ells and Michael Nunez of Rosen Bien Galvan & Grunfeld, www.rbgg.com. Attorneys for the plaintiffs are interested in speaking with any blind individuals who have been unable to use the Greyhound mobile app or website with their screen-reader or who have been charged convenience fees for booking tickets over the telephone.

"Without the ability to drive, blind people need travel alternatives like Greyhound," said Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the blind. "It's mystifying, not to mention unlawful, that Greyhound makes it impossible for us to book trips in the same ways everyone else can. Worse yet, Greyhound charges us extra for the convenience of using the only booking methods that work for us, the phone or the ticket counter at the bus station. Paying for Greyhound’s discrimination against us is offensive and this unequal treatment will not be left unchallenged. "

Christine Malec talks about her new Fan Fiction Novel, Before The Tide. This is a book Christine wrote in the universe of Harry Potter Books. Fan Fiction is just that, an author uses the universe and world created by another author and just, “Goes with it.” Christine talks about how her book Before the Tide came about and the processes that she goes through to create and develop her book.

Christine has also published her own novel, Beltine and is working on another book in which she is building her own universe 8,000 years ago here on Earth. Quite the imagination and Christine does not stop at writing when it comes to creativeness. Her blogs, music and audio documentaries are full of interesting topics, sounds and details of travels, activities and fantasy.

Check out Christine’s web site and get her newly released Fan fiction Book, Before the Tide. She has a text version and a MP3 audio version and the price is free. Check out her other creations, blog

What makes five of the most powerful witches and wizards of their day retreat from the world to teach magic? 11th Century Britain is a perilous place, even for a sorcerer. It’s the summer of 1066, and England is on the brink of events that will bring destruction and transformation. A battlefield is an unspeakable place, but it can also be a place of astonishing heroism. Brought together by the manipulations of a wizard even more powerful than they, the Hogwarts four, inspired by the remarkable courage of Odo the Hero on Hastings field, find themselves embarked on a quest to the north, which keeps them one step ahead of the invading army. On their journey, they meet seductive sorceresses, vicious magical creatures, and people who are not what they seem. The country is changing, and magic is no longer as stylish as it once was. Should magicians interfere in the affairs of muggles? Should witches and wizards retreat from the world for their own safety? Is magic the only protection witches have in a violent world? And who is the cantankerous old wizard responsible for bringing these legendary friends together? This is a rollicking tale of adventure and magic, that peaks behind legends, and explores what it means to be different in a dangerous world.

Christine Malec talks about her new Fan Fiction Novel, Before The Tide. This is a book Christine wrote in the universe of Harry Potter Books. Fan Fiction is just that, an author uses the universe and world created by another author and just, “Goes with it.” Christine talks about how her book Before the Tide came about and the processes that she goes through to create and develop her book.

Christine has also published her own novel, Beltine and is working on another book in which she is building her own universe 8,000 years ago here on Earth. Quite the imagination and Christine does not stop at writing when it comes to creativeness. Her blogs, music and audio documentaries are full of interesting topics, sounds and details of travels, activities and fantasy.

Check out Christine’s web site and get her newly released Fan fiction Book, Before the Tide. She has a text version and a MP3 audio version and the price is free. Check out her other creations, blog

What makes five of the most powerful witches and wizards of their day retreat from the world to teach magic? 11th Century Britain is a perilous place, even for a sorcerer. It’s the summer of 1066, and England is on the brink of events that will bring destruction and transformation. A battlefield is an unspeakable place, but it can also be a place of astonishing heroism. Brought together by the manipulations of a wizard even more powerful than they, the Hogwarts four, inspired by the remarkable courage of Odo the Hero on Hastings field, find themselves embarked on a quest to the north, which keeps them one step ahead of the invading army. On their journey, they meet seductive sorceresses, vicious magical creatures, and people who are not what they seem. The country is changing, and magic is no longer as stylish as it once was. Should magicians interfere in the affairs of muggles? Should witches and wizards retreat from the world for their own safety? Is magic the only protection witches have in a violent world? And who is the cantankerous old wizard responsible for bringing these legendary friends together? This is a rollicking tale of adventure and magic, that peaks behind legends, and explores what it means to be different in a dangerous world.

]]>41:29no1269fullInterviews From FCB2017: Aira, Humanware, GuidingEyes, GuideLightsAndGadgets and more!Wed, 07 Jun 2017 18:34:09 +0000Blind Abilities was there! (Yes, we were in attendance at FCB2017 and we have some choice audio from the Exhibit hall floor! Join our Blind Abilities special correspondent, Cheryl Spencer and Pete Lane as they provide interviews with:

- Allison with Election systems & Software

- Barry with GuideLights & Gadgets

- Renee Byrd, with deTerra Essential Oils

- John with Low Vision Aids and Magnifying America

- Sam from HumanWare

- Becky from Guiding eyes for the Blind

and

Patrick Lane chatting about Aira.

You can find all their contact information and web site addresses below.

]]>Blind Abilities was there! (Yes, we were in attendance at FCB2017 and we have some choice audio from the Exhibit hall floor! Join our Blind Abilities special correspondent, Cheryl Spencer and Pete Lane as they provide interviews with:

- Allison with Election systems & Software

- Barry with GuideLights & Gadgets

- Renee Byrd, with deTerra Essential Oils

- John with Low Vision Aids and Magnifying America

- Sam from HumanWare

- Becky from Guiding eyes for the Blind

and

Patrick Lane chatting about Aira.

You can find all their contact information and web site addresses below.

]]>28:16no1268fullThe Read Read: Revolutionary Device for learning Braille!Mon, 05 Jun 2017 04:20:47 +0000Alex Tavares is a recent Masters Degree graduate from Harvard University that has developed a revolutionary tool for assisting in teaching Braille to children and newly blind braille learners. Alex talks about what is The Read Read and how his years as a teacher led him to develop this innovative device that he would like to bring to classrooms and into the hands of the braille students.

Alex talks about the experience gained from a 12 week study with students and instructors at The Perkins School for the Blind. Alex tells us about his volunteering and his teaching experience that led to the creation of The Read Read. May 23 was the launch of The Read Read Kickstarter which set a goal of getting 400 devices out to students and classrooms.

]]>Alex Tavares is a recent Masters Degree graduate from Harvard University that has developed a revolutionary tool for assisting in teaching Braille to children and newly blind braille learners. Alex talks about what is The Read Read and how his years as a teacher led him to develop this innovative device that he would like to bring to classrooms and into the hands of the braille students.

Alex talks about the experience gained from a 12 week study with students and instructors at The Perkins School for the Blind. Alex tells us about his volunteering and his teaching experience that led to the creation of The Read Read. May 23 was the launch of The Read Read Kickstarter which set a goal of getting 400 devices out to students and classrooms.

]]>14:24no1267fulliPhone101: Voiceover Gestures Part 3, The 3-Finger GesturesSun, 28 May 2017 16:47:22 +0000Nick D’Ambrosio presents this episode on the 3-finger Voiceover gestures, continuing the Blind Abilities’ series: iPhone 101. Join Nick, along with Pete and Jeff for this informative walk through the 3-finger group of VO gestures, including:

- 3-finger single tap - find your location on your phone,

- 3-finger double tap: turn speech off/on. Note: not quite the same as turning VO off and on by triple-clicking your Home button,

]]>Nick D’Ambrosio presents this episode on the 3-finger Voiceover gestures, continuing the Blind Abilities’ series: iPhone 101. Join Nick, along with Pete and Jeff for this informative walk through the 3-finger group of VO gestures, including:

- 3-finger single tap - find your location on your phone,

- 3-finger double tap: turn speech off/on. Note: not quite the same as turning VO off and on by triple-clicking your Home button,

]]>10:03no1266fullThe Business Enterprise program: Business Ownership Opportunities and a Promising CareerTue, 23 May 2017 12:57:29 +0000The Business Enterprise program: Business Ownership Opportunities and a Promising Career

The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) was established for Blind/Visually Impaired individuals to create opportunities and careers through food vending services and food and merchandise sales on Federal and state properties. The BEP program is nationwide and if you or anybody you know is interested in owning their own business, wants to work and begin a promising career, share this podcast and let them know about the Business Enterprise program.

Jeff Thompson talks with John hulet, the Director of the BEP in Minnesota, Scott Eggen, a 30 plus year veteran in the BEP and Michael Colbrunn a new comer to the program and he is enjoying the choices and challenges that he has accepted by owning his own business.

]]>The Business Enterprise program: Business Ownership Opportunities and a Promising Career

The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) was established for Blind/Visually Impaired individuals to create opportunities and careers through food vending services and food and merchandise sales on Federal and state properties. The BEP program is nationwide and if you or anybody you know is interested in owning their own business, wants to work and begin a promising career, share this podcast and let them know about the Business Enterprise program.

Jeff Thompson talks with John hulet, the Director of the BEP in Minnesota, Scott Eggen, a 30 plus year veteran in the BEP and Michael Colbrunn a new comer to the program and he is enjoying the choices and challenges that he has accepted by owning his own business.

Blind Abilities presents another episode in their series: iPhone 101. This is their second installment focusing on Voiceover gestures. In this segment, Pete Lane reviews the 2-finger gestures. Pete describes each gesture and then demonstrates how each is used in a realtime iPhone application. Pete also walks us through the Voiceover Help,/Practice area, by using the 4-finger double-tap gesture.

* Gestures covered in this episode are:

- 2-finger single tap: stop VO from speaking,

- 2-finger double tap, AKA the Magic tap: play and pause audio such as music, podcasts, and much more,

- 2-finger flick up and down: “Read All” gestures,

- 2-finger scrub: moves to the previous page or screen, and

- 2-finger triple tap: brings up the List Chooser.

Stay tuned as Blind Abilities continues to review more VO gestures as well as much more on the iPhone!

Blind Abilities presents another episode in their series: iPhone 101. This is their second installment focusing on Voiceover gestures. In this segment, Pete Lane reviews the 2-finger gestures. Pete describes each gesture and then demonstrates how each is used in a realtime iPhone application. Pete also walks us through the Voiceover Help,/Practice area, by using the 4-finger double-tap gesture.

* Gestures covered in this episode are:

- 2-finger single tap: stop VO from speaking,

- 2-finger double tap, AKA the Magic tap: play and pause audio such as music, podcasts, and much more,

- 2-finger flick up and down: “Read All” gestures,

- 2-finger scrub: moves to the previous page or screen, and

- 2-finger triple tap: brings up the List Chooser.

Stay tuned as Blind Abilities continues to review more VO gestures as well as much more on the iPhone!

]]>15:34no1264fullGirl Gone Blind: The Unexpected Life of Maria JohnsonThu, 18 May 2017 01:12:15 +0000Maria Johnson a.k.a. Girl Gone Blind is a mom, a blogger, radio host, fitness instructor, health and wellness advocate, podcaster, and most of all... Maria shares her experiences and assists others going through the turnstiles entering the journey of Blindness.

From learning about her LHON eye condition, losing most of her usable sight, struggling with the acceptance of her vision loss and continuing her fitness instruction classes, Maria talks about it all and then some.

Join Maria Johnson along with Jeff Thompson of Blind Abilities as they travel the journey of a Girl Gone Blind.

]]>Maria Johnson a.k.a. Girl Gone Blind is a mom, a blogger, radio host, fitness instructor, health and wellness advocate, podcaster, and most of all... Maria shares her experiences and assists others going through the turnstiles entering the journey of Blindness.

From learning about her LHON eye condition, losing most of her usable sight, struggling with the acceptance of her vision loss and continuing her fitness instruction classes, Maria talks about it all and then some.

Join Maria Johnson along with Jeff Thompson of Blind Abilities as they travel the journey of a Girl Gone Blind.

Pete Lane adds this addendum to his post dated May 2, 2017 in which he described his process for unsubscribing to unwanted junk emails. A listener, Mandy Van Cleave wrote in to apprise us of a new button added to incoming emails in iOS 10, that allows us to quickly unsubscribe with the tap of a button. Pete quickly walks us through that process in this 4-minute demo. Special thanks to Mandy for being so attentive and we encourage others to share their thoughts, and even corrections to our posts!

Pete Lane adds this addendum to his post dated May 2, 2017 in which he described his process for unsubscribing to unwanted junk emails. A listener, Mandy Van Cleave wrote in to apprise us of a new button added to incoming emails in iOS 10, that allows us to quickly unsubscribe with the tap of a button. Pete quickly walks us through that process in this 4-minute demo. Special thanks to Mandy for being so attentive and we encourage others to share their thoughts, and even corrections to our posts!

Erich Manser is an Accessibility Researcher for IBM, an Explorer for Aira, has held the World Record for a BVI in Triathlon and has participated in the Boston Marathon 8 times to date. His latest Boston marathon was enhanced by a Visual Interpreter device from Aira.

Aira is a revolutionary device that allows the user, the explorer, to connect up with an Agent who can see what the user is looking at. The Aira glasses have a camera that allows the Agent to actually visually interpret what is in front of the glasses. Whether it be a vending machine, new hotel lobby, an airport jet-way or to the extreme in which Erich took the Aira team. Erich’s Agent virtually completed her first Boston Marathon while being in Ohio.

Erich talks about his blindness, his work as an Accessibility Researcher, accessible vehicles, and his experience using the Aira: Visual Interpreter for the Blind.

Erich Manser is an Accessibility Researcher for IBM, an Explorer for Aira, has held the World Record for a BVI in Triathlon and has participated in the Boston Marathon 8 times to date. His latest Boston marathon was enhanced by a Visual Interpreter device from Aira.

Aira is a revolutionary device that allows the user, the explorer, to connect up with an Agent who can see what the user is looking at. The Aira glasses have a camera that allows the Agent to actually visually interpret what is in front of the glasses. Whether it be a vending machine, new hotel lobby, an airport jet-way or to the extreme in which Erich took the Aira team. Erich’s Agent virtually completed her first Boston Marathon while being in Ohio.

Erich talks about his blindness, his work as an Accessibility Researcher, accessible vehicles, and his experience using the Aira: Visual Interpreter for the Blind.

I first learned of the Hooke Verse, in Summer 2015, from an article at the Apple Vis website, written by one of it's developers Anthony Mattana.

I honestly can't tell you guys how proud I am for your perseverance, for at least 2 years. I have watched as closely as I could as this product came from an amazing idea, to a wearable reality. I also can't tell you how thankful I am to have been able to test a beta hardware unit for a little over a year, and watch as the iOS app grew into what it is today. The Hooke Verse, has, in fact, changed the way I record 3D Audio into my smart phone. As a totally blind user, I appreciate the fact that accessibility was definitely not an after thought, but was built-in to apps for various platforms from the outset of the project. That is rare, and for that I thank you.

Description of Hooke Verse from Website."

Hooke Verse is a pair of Bluetooth headphones that incorporate binaural microphones designed to capture 3D audio. Specially placed mics allow you to capture sound like you actually hear it. Once captured, Hooke Verse’s 3D audio can be experienced on any pair of headphones or two channel system, no special speakers or algorithms required. Your listeners will feel like they’re there.

With the free Hooke Audio mobile app, you can capture 3D audio wirelessly to your iOS or Android device using Hooke’s proprietary Bluetooth recording codec. With the Hooke Audio recording cable, you can capture 3D audio to any device, even if they don’t have Bluetooth.

With the Hooke Verse, your videos and recordings can have professional binaural 3D audio.

"

Description of the Hooke Audio iOS app.

"

Record WIRELESS binaural 3D Audio and 3D Sound using the Hooke Verse available at www.hookeaudio.com. Turn your device into a professional field recorder with the Hooke Audio app.

3D Audio is sound captured identically to the way your ears hears audio. When you listen back (with headphones) you'll feel like you're there.

The Hooke Audio app accesses your camera to bring your smartphone videos to life in 3D Audio. It also doubles as a field recorder, put your device in your pocket and record 3d audio on the fly. Seamlessly pair high-quality audio to your video camera with zero latency and listen to concert videos, podcasts, adventures and home videos come to life like never before.

Share your 3d audio videos and sound recordings via email, social media and text message straight from the app. No special speakers or algorithms required as long as you're wearing any pair headphones.

Sound matters. Be hear. Change the way you record the world.

"

Back story

I received my beta Verse unit in April 2016. I have heavily tested for the past year+ and feel that this gives me enough experience to give my honest opinion about the product.

I was amazed as I listened to the development team talk about plans for the product on an internet radio show some time before, developing a Bluetooth profile to record HQ stereo for one thing, creating a product to record binaural 3D audio that would pare with my Smartphone was the icing on the cake. I can honestly say after the year+ of testing that this product has in fact, changed the way I record mobile audio. It's really as easy as turning on the unit, opening the app, and placing two fingers on the screen to start/stop recording.

Listen to how the App works with Apples Built-in Voiceover Here

The Hooke Verse sets out to improve the quality of Video and Audios taken on ones mobile device, and it seriously does just that!

I give the Hooke verse **** (4 out of 5 stars).

Pros

Super ease of use:

I love how easy it is to start recording and capture something good. I have used standalone field recording equipment for years, as well as iOS interfaces and it can not get easier than the hooke.

Incredible purchase price:

A package that gives you Binaural recording, preamps and ear buds wireless? for around $200.00? That blows me away!

No computer needed to push content to the web:

This is a big deal for me, It's something I've wanted for years! It's amazing to push my audios up to Drop box or Audioboom, or shoot to a friend in a I Message, without needing to take a recorder back to a computer and upload.

Great battery life:

The dataflow does not drain my mobile devices battery. If I start recording at 100% I can care free record for 2-3 hours and still have 70% battery left. The Hooke Verse battery easily lasts 6-8 Hours between charges.

The microphones can handle moderately high SPL levels before clipping.

The unit is built extremely well:

Mine has been through hell, including a wash cycle, and it still working hard!

The Hooke Verse is unobtrusive, and looks just like headphones.

Cons:

Recording audio quality is less than I might expect:

I really want to address this con, gently.

Do you remember the first field recorder?

The first generation IPod?

I believe all devices start somewhere, and grow, from there.

I believe there are two groups of people who will latch on to the Hooke Verse. The first, the sighted video enthusiast, who wants to upgrade there recording audio quality on YouTube videos and other media. All they have used for recording is the internal microphone on there phone or camera. I think the Verse is super amazing for that. I wish everyone owned a Hooke Verse because dude YouTube would sound epic!

The second group, audio enthusiasts. Let's remember, You can not compare wireless to wired, in any medium.

You can't expect to purchase this microphone, and expect to capture super quiet events with next to no noise. No, instead purchase this device, for capturing every day moments, quickly. As an audio junky, there are two things I put in my left pocket daily, an extra NFB White cane tip, and my Hooke Verse.

Playback quality:

Okay, so why did I purchase the Hooke Verse again? Why of course, to record. For playback, you will want to have another pare of ear buds/headphones with you for any serious listening.

The tips don't really fit my ears:

I'm coming from a beta unit standpoint, but I feel it worth mentioning. All the tips I received are a bit small for my ears and the unit easily moves/would fall out if I didn't catch it.

However, it's good to note that the public release comes with multiple types of ear tips. This might very well have solved this issue.

Other notes worth reading:

Recordings from The Hooke Verse are best in an environment that is medium to moderately loud.

I find it challenging to set the input gain in loud environments as there is significant leakage through the ear buds. (real time/monitor) Phone does not vibrate when levels peak.

As a blind Voiceover user, if you give the app access to the microphone, this gives access to the devices internal microphone. In this case, when you open the app, you will not see any buttons on screen. I only use the Hooke mobile app to record from my Hooke Verse, so I do not give the app Microphone access. This, allows me to see the settings and other app buttons/controls, and go to the recording level screen only when my Verse unit is switched on.

As a blind Voiceover user using this product. At the time of writing, the public release of the iOS Hooke Mobile app, (version 1.0.4) is a bit spotty when starting recording. The phone should vibrate, both when starting/stopping recording. My IPhone7 only vibrates when recording has stopped. The last version of the app when it was in beta was very solid/good in the regard of vibration in both start/stop record. I have no real worries, as I'm sure this will be corrected in a future version.

It is a nice edition to see the Gallery button made accessible. If you also come from a beta standpoint, no longer is there the need to make a recording, just to see your previous recordings.

The app currently only records audio in Apples M4A format.

You will get better audio quality, if turning on airplane mode, and activating Bluetooth while recording.

Conclusion

I am very happy with the Hooke Verse. I look forward to making a second purchase of a release version in the future to see/hear any differences from beta to final.

The Hooke Verse is a device I use on a daily basses in my life, and I highly recommend to anyone looking to upgrade the audio recording quality on there mobile device.

Audio examples

I've been planning on posting this review for some time now, so have tried to capture a number of varying environments to hear.

I first learned of the Hooke Verse, in Summer 2015, from an article at the Apple Vis website, written by one of it's developers Anthony Mattana.

I honestly can't tell you guys how proud I am for your perseverance, for at least 2 years. I have watched as closely as I could as this product came from an amazing idea, to a wearable reality. I also can't tell you how thankful I am to have been able to test a beta hardware unit for a little over a year, and watch as the iOS app grew into what it is today. The Hooke Verse, has, in fact, changed the way I record 3D Audio into my smart phone. As a totally blind user, I appreciate the fact that accessibility was definitely not an after thought, but was built-in to apps for various platforms from the outset of the project. That is rare, and for that I thank you.

Description of Hooke Verse from Website."

Hooke Verse is a pair of Bluetooth headphones that incorporate binaural microphones designed to capture 3D audio. Specially placed mics allow you to capture sound like you actually hear it. Once captured, Hooke Verse’s 3D audio can be experienced on any pair of headphones or two channel system, no special speakers or algorithms required. Your listeners will feel like they’re there.

With the free Hooke Audio mobile app, you can capture 3D audio wirelessly to your iOS or Android device using Hooke’s proprietary Bluetooth recording codec. With the Hooke Audio recording cable, you can capture 3D audio to any device, even if they don’t have Bluetooth.

With the Hooke Verse, your videos and recordings can have professional binaural 3D audio.

"

Description of the Hooke Audio iOS app.

"

Record WIRELESS binaural 3D Audio and 3D Sound using the Hooke Verse available at www.hookeaudio.com. Turn your device into a professional field recorder with the Hooke Audio app.

3D Audio is sound captured identically to the way your ears hears audio. When you listen back (with headphones) you'll feel like you're there.

The Hooke Audio app accesses your camera to bring your smartphone videos to life in 3D Audio. It also doubles as a field recorder, put your device in your pocket and record 3d audio on the fly. Seamlessly pair high-quality audio to your video camera with zero latency and listen to concert videos, podcasts, adventures and home videos come to life like never before.

Share your 3d audio videos and sound recordings via email, social media and text message straight from the app. No special speakers or algorithms required as long as you're wearing any pair headphones.

Sound matters. Be hear. Change the way you record the world.

"

Back story

I received my beta Verse unit in April 2016. I have heavily tested for the past year+ and feel that this gives me enough experience to give my honest opinion about the product.

I was amazed as I listened to the development team talk about plans for the product on an internet radio show some time before, developing a Bluetooth profile to record HQ stereo for one thing, creating a product to record binaural 3D audio that would pare with my Smartphone was the icing on the cake. I can honestly say after the year+ of testing that this product has in fact, changed the way I record mobile audio. It's really as easy as turning on the unit, opening the app, and placing two fingers on the screen to start/stop recording.

Listen to how the App works with Apples Built-in Voiceover Here

The Hooke Verse sets out to improve the quality of Video and Audios taken on ones mobile device, and it seriously does just that!

I give the Hooke verse **** (4 out of 5 stars).

Pros

Super ease of use:

I love how easy it is to start recording and capture something good. I have used standalone field recording equipment for years, as well as iOS interfaces and it can not get easier than the hooke.

Incredible purchase price:

A package that gives you Binaural recording, preamps and ear buds wireless? for around $200.00? That blows me away!

No computer needed to push content to the web:

This is a big deal for me, It's something I've wanted for years! It's amazing to push my audios up to Drop box or Audioboom, or shoot to a friend in a I Message, without needing to take a recorder back to a computer and upload.

Great battery life:

The dataflow does not drain my mobile devices battery. If I start recording at 100% I can care free record for 2-3 hours and still have 70% battery left. The Hooke Verse battery easily lasts 6-8 Hours between charges.

The microphones can handle moderately high SPL levels before clipping.

The unit is built extremely well:

Mine has been through hell, including a wash cycle, and it still working hard!

The Hooke Verse is unobtrusive, and looks just like headphones.

Cons:

Recording audio quality is less than I might expect:

I really want to address this con, gently.

Do you remember the first field recorder?

The first generation IPod?

I believe all devices start somewhere, and grow, from there.

I believe there are two groups of people who will latch on to the Hooke Verse. The first, the sighted video enthusiast, who wants to upgrade there recording audio quality on YouTube videos and other media. All they have used for recording is the internal microphone on there phone or camera. I think the Verse is super amazing for that. I wish everyone owned a Hooke Verse because dude YouTube would sound epic!

The second group, audio enthusiasts. Let's remember, You can not compare wireless to wired, in any medium.

You can't expect to purchase this microphone, and expect to capture super quiet events with next to no noise. No, instead purchase this device, for capturing every day moments, quickly. As an audio junky, there are two things I put in my left pocket daily, an extra NFB White cane tip, and my Hooke Verse.

Playback quality:

Okay, so why did I purchase the Hooke Verse again? Why of course, to record. For playback, you will want to have another pare of ear buds/headphones with you for any serious listening.

The tips don't really fit my ears:

I'm coming from a beta unit standpoint, but I feel it worth mentioning. All the tips I received are a bit small for my ears and the unit easily moves/would fall out if I didn't catch it.

However, it's good to note that the public release comes with multiple types of ear tips. This might very well have solved this issue.

Other notes worth reading:

Recordings from The Hooke Verse are best in an environment that is medium to moderately loud.

I find it challenging to set the input gain in loud environments as there is significant leakage through the ear buds. (real time/monitor) Phone does not vibrate when levels peak.

As a blind Voiceover user, if you give the app access to the microphone, this gives access to the devices internal microphone. In this case, when you open the app, you will not see any buttons on screen. I only use the Hooke mobile app to record from my Hooke Verse, so I do not give the app Microphone access. This, allows me to see the settings and other app buttons/controls, and go to the recording level screen only when my Verse unit is switched on.

As a blind Voiceover user using this product. At the time of writing, the public release of the iOS Hooke Mobile app, (version 1.0.4) is a bit spotty when starting recording. The phone should vibrate, both when starting/stopping recording. My IPhone7 only vibrates when recording has stopped. The last version of the app when it was in beta was very solid/good in the regard of vibration in both start/stop record. I have no real worries, as I'm sure this will be corrected in a future version.

It is a nice edition to see the Gallery button made accessible. If you also come from a beta standpoint, no longer is there the need to make a recording, just to see your previous recordings.

The app currently only records audio in Apples M4A format.

You will get better audio quality, if turning on airplane mode, and activating Bluetooth while recording.

Conclusion

I am very happy with the Hooke Verse. I look forward to making a second purchase of a release version in the future to see/hear any differences from beta to final.

The Hooke Verse is a device I use on a daily basses in my life, and I highly recommend to anyone looking to upgrade the audio recording quality on there mobile device.

Audio examples

I've been planning on posting this review for some time now, so have tried to capture a number of varying environments to hear.

Pete Lane continues the new Blind Abilities series: iPhone 101 with an introduction to Voiceover gestures. In this episode, Pete walks through the very basic settings needed for new users to operate their iPhones using Voiceover, the built-in screen reader that comes on board all Apple products. Pete describes how to turn Voiceover on and off, using three different methods: first, by walking us through the Settings app, flicking down to General, then Accessibility and going to the very bottom of the Accessibility screen to turn on the Accessibility Shortcut. Second, Pete demonstrates how to use the shortcut by pressing the Home button three times quickly. Finally, Pete takes us into the Voiceover settings screen and shows us the Voiceover toggle button. his is where we would show a sighted person how to turn Voiceover on and off. Caution: be careful with this button as it is often difficult to turn VO back on if you toggle it off. In addition, as a sneak peek into an upcoming episode in which we’ll learn about more Voiceover gestures, Pete introduces us to the Voiceover Practice area where we can work on our gestures without triggering any of the normal VO actions. So sit back and relax, as Blind Abilities takes us through the basic Voiceover settings in this ten-minute demo, presented as only Blind Abilities can!

Pete Lane continues the new Blind Abilities series: iPhone 101 with an introduction to Voiceover gestures. In this episode, Pete walks through the very basic settings needed for new users to operate their iPhones using Voiceover, the built-in screen reader that comes on board all Apple products. Pete describes how to turn Voiceover on and off, using three different methods: first, by walking us through the Settings app, flicking down to General, then Accessibility and going to the very bottom of the Accessibility screen to turn on the Accessibility Shortcut. Second, Pete demonstrates how to use the shortcut by pressing the Home button three times quickly. Finally, Pete takes us into the Voiceover settings screen and shows us the Voiceover toggle button. his is where we would show a sighted person how to turn Voiceover on and off. Caution: be careful with this button as it is often difficult to turn VO back on if you toggle it off. In addition, as a sneak peek into an upcoming episode in which we’ll learn about more Voiceover gestures, Pete introduces us to the Voiceover Practice area where we can work on our gestures without triggering any of the normal VO actions. So sit back and relax, as Blind Abilities takes us through the basic Voiceover settings in this ten-minute demo, presented as only Blind Abilities can!

Prizmo Go was created for everybody and with VoiceOver Accessibility, Prizmo Go is another good tool for the BVI community to put in their toolbox. With the ability to share the text captured and with pretty good recognition, Prizmo Go ranks up there with Office Lens, another recently released OCR app with VoiceOver Accessibility working well.

The capturing of text and the reading is remarkable.

Prizmo Go has 2 in-app upgrades available. Export Pack allows for exporting text and files, open in other apps, and work with WorkFlow. Cloud OCR is an upgrade for the OCR, although the on-board OCR works well, the Cloud OCR claims to have better recognition and 6 more languages and is able to detect what language the text is automatically.

Prizmo Go recognizes the relationship of the camera to the image and tells the user to move or to adjust the angle or to turn the camera.

This Free app with in-app upgrades is actually a pretty good OCR application and this being version 1.0 there is a good chance that we will see even more opportunities from the PrizmoGo App Team. Be on the lookout for the next upgrade coming soon.

Prizmo Go was created for everybody and with VoiceOver Accessibility, Prizmo Go is another good tool for the BVI community to put in their toolbox. With the ability to share the text captured and with pretty good recognition, Prizmo Go ranks up there with Office Lens, another recently released OCR app with VoiceOver Accessibility working well.

The capturing of text and the reading is remarkable.

Prizmo Go has 2 in-app upgrades available. Export Pack allows for exporting text and files, open in other apps, and work with WorkFlow. Cloud OCR is an upgrade for the OCR, although the on-board OCR works well, the Cloud OCR claims to have better recognition and 6 more languages and is able to detect what language the text is automatically.

Prizmo Go recognizes the relationship of the camera to the image and tells the user to move or to adjust the angle or to turn the camera.

This Free app with in-app upgrades is actually a pretty good OCR application and this being version 1.0 there is a good chance that we will see even more opportunities from the PrizmoGo App Team. Be on the lookout for the next upgrade coming soon.

Blind Abilities adds to their iAccess Demo series with this brief demo on how to quickly unsubscribe from spam and junk marketing emails that we all hate to receive on our iDevices. Join Pete Lane as he walks us through his process, quickly and efficiently!

Blind Abilities adds to their iAccess Demo series with this brief demo on how to quickly unsubscribe from spam and junk marketing emails that we all hate to receive on our iDevices. Join Pete Lane as he walks us through his process, quickly and efficiently!

John Olson from 3D Photo Works gives us an overview of the tactile replicas of some of the finest art in the world. 3E Photo Works goal is to provide the blind with access to art and photography at every museum, every science center and every cultural institution, first in this country and then beyond.

Since the invention of Braille nearly 200 years ago, advocates have worked continuously to improve access to the printed word for the blind. Today, technology makes access nearly immediate.

However, a new challenge exists. The next frontier is to provide the blind with access to photographs and art, not words that describe them, but access to the actual images.

3DPhotoWorks has devoted nearly 7 years to developing a solution. Our process converts any painting, drawing, collage or photograph to a 3 Dimensional Tactile Fine Art Print. Our prints have length, width, depth and texture. Using their fingertips, the blind experience our prints through tactile feedback. This feedback creates a mental picture that allows the blind to “see” (their words) the art, often for the first time.

Sensors are embedded throughout the print that when activated by touch, provide custom audio that grows the narrative.

John Olson from 3D Photo Works gives us an overview of the tactile replicas of some of the finest art in the world. 3E Photo Works goal is to provide the blind with access to art and photography at every museum, every science center and every cultural institution, first in this country and then beyond.

Since the invention of Braille nearly 200 years ago, advocates have worked continuously to improve access to the printed word for the blind. Today, technology makes access nearly immediate.

However, a new challenge exists. The next frontier is to provide the blind with access to photographs and art, not words that describe them, but access to the actual images.

3DPhotoWorks has devoted nearly 7 years to developing a solution. Our process converts any painting, drawing, collage or photograph to a 3 Dimensional Tactile Fine Art Print. Our prints have length, width, depth and texture. Using their fingertips, the blind experience our prints through tactile feedback. This feedback creates a mental picture that allows the blind to “see” (their words) the art, often for the first time.

Sensors are embedded throughout the print that when activated by touch, provide custom audio that grows the narrative.

Blind Abilities presents another installment in their series iPhone 101. This post fits into the Resources section and takes us through an in depth walk through of the new apple Support app. this app provides a wealth of information, including built-in resources and articles on any kind of Apple device you might own. It is “device-specific” meaning it contains all devices that are registered under the user’s Apple ID. If the on-board information isn’t enough, the app provides quick one-touch buttons which connect you directly with Apple Support. If contact is made with Apple, a trouble ticket is created and displayed right inside this app.

Join Pete Lane as he takes us through a detailed look at this new and beneficial new app! You can contact Pete Lane on Twitter

Blind Abilities presents another installment in their series iPhone 101. This post fits into the Resources section and takes us through an in depth walk through of the new apple Support app. this app provides a wealth of information, including built-in resources and articles on any kind of Apple device you might own. It is “device-specific” meaning it contains all devices that are registered under the user’s Apple ID. If the on-board information isn’t enough, the app provides quick one-touch buttons which connect you directly with Apple Support. If contact is made with Apple, a trouble ticket is created and displayed right inside this app.

Join Pete Lane as he takes us through a detailed look at this new and beneficial new app! You can contact Pete Lane on Twitter

Blind Abilities presents the next installment in their series iPhone 101 with an in depth demonstration of setting up a new iPhone. Pete Lane walks us through a description of the packaging, the box and its contents, an introduction to the orientation of the phone, turning on voiceover, arranging various language and location preferences, connecting to a WiFi network and many more phases involved in turning on and setting up a new iPhone.

Stay tuned ads Blind Abilities continues to fill in those gaps to help you fully understand and operate your new iPhone. Our approach with this series is to follow the progression of a new user, so thanks for your patience as we proceed thoroughly through each and every step along the way!

Blind Abilities presents the next installment in their series iPhone 101 with an in depth demonstration of setting up a new iPhone. Pete Lane walks us through a description of the packaging, the box and its contents, an introduction to the orientation of the phone, turning on voiceover, arranging various language and location preferences, connecting to a WiFi network and many more phases involved in turning on and setting up a new iPhone.

Stay tuned ads Blind Abilities continues to fill in those gaps to help you fully understand and operate your new iPhone. Our approach with this series is to follow the progression of a new user, so thanks for your patience as we proceed thoroughly through each and every step along the way!

]]>36:14no1254fullAira Visual Interpreter for the Blind: the Agent Perspective, Growing and Evolving, an Inside LookMon, 24 Apr 2017 11:47:30 +0000Aira Visual Interpreter for the Blind: the Agent Perspective, Growing and Evolving, an Inside Look Blind Abilities presents the next installment in its series on Aira. Pete Lane continues his interview with Amy Bernal, Director of Aira Agents, and Patrick Lane, Aira Agent analyst. Hear their thoughts on Aira agent training, their views on customer service and the continuing evolution of the agent position. Aira has grown from eight contract agents at the time of the interview, to twenty-three, and they continue to hire. If you are a sighted listener, check the web site at Aira.IO for details, or contact Erin@Aira.IO for information on becoming an agent. Hear how Aira is piloting extended hours of availability until 10p.m. Pacific Time, 1a.m. Eastern. Blind Abilities offers a detailed look into Aira: the product, its users, agents and the company itself - a perspective that cannot be found anywhere else in the podcast arena. stay tuned for future podcasts as Jeff and Pete interview Erich Manser, employed by IBM Accessibility and a blind runner who recently completed the Boston Marathon with Aira as part of his visual guide. Keep it tuned right here for more podcasts with a blindness perspective!

]]>Aira Visual Interpreter for the Blind: the Agent Perspective, Growing and Evolving, an Inside Look Blind Abilities presents the next installment in its series on Aira. Pete Lane continues his interview with Amy Bernal, Director of Aira Agents, and Patrick Lane, Aira Agent analyst. Hear their thoughts on Aira agent training, their views on customer service and the continuing evolution of the agent position. Aira has grown from eight contract agents at the time of the interview, to twenty-three, and they continue to hire. If you are a sighted listener, check the web site at Aira.IO for details, or contact Erin@Aira.IO for information on becoming an agent. Hear how Aira is piloting extended hours of availability until 10p.m. Pacific Time, 1a.m. Eastern. Blind Abilities offers a detailed look into Aira: the product, its users, agents and the company itself - a perspective that cannot be found anywhere else in the podcast arena. stay tuned for future podcasts as Jeff and Pete interview Erich Manser, employed by IBM Accessibility and a blind runner who recently completed the Boston Marathon with Aira as part of his visual guide. Keep it tuned right here for more podcasts with a blindness perspective!

The ID mate Galaxy not only reads bar codes the ID Mate gives instructions, Nutritional Values, detailed product information and will conduct price checks with national retailers such as Walmart and Amazon. You can make your own identification for labels by recording your own voice to pre-printed labels.

The Script Talk product allows a pharmacist to put labels on the medication bottles that can be read by a blind/visually impaired person just by holding the label over the talking reader. No more guessing and no more taking chances. There are large print and Braille options with Script View and David gives us a full overview of all these Envision America products.

]]>David Raistrick, Vice president/CEO of Envision America introduces us to the ID Mate Galaxy and Script Talk. Both accessible products talk and give us access to labels and much much more.

The ID mate Galaxy not only reads bar codes the ID Mate gives instructions, Nutritional Values, detailed product information and will conduct price checks with national retailers such as Walmart and Amazon. You can make your own identification for labels by recording your own voice to pre-printed labels.

The Script Talk product allows a pharmacist to put labels on the medication bottles that can be read by a blind/visually impaired person just by holding the label over the talking reader. No more guessing and no more taking chances. There are large print and Braille options with Script View and David gives us a full overview of all these Envision America products.

Here is a quick overview of the new Office Lens App from Microsoft.This is a Free app that captures text and enables one to utilize the image/text in a variety of ways. From OCR to PowerPoint this new app seems to do it all especially when exported to a word processing app such as Microsoft Word itself.

Office Lens is like having a scanner in your pocket. Like magic, it will digitize notes on whiteboards or blackboards. Always find important documents or business cards. Sketch your ideas and snap a picture for later. Don't lose receipts or stray sticky notes again!

Scenarios:

- Capture and crop a picture of a whiteboard or blackboard and share your meeting notes with co-workers.

- Make digital copies of your printed documents, business cards or posters and trim them precisely.

- Printed and handwritten text will be automatically recognized (using OCR), so you can search for words in images and then copy and edit them.

Features:

- With Whiteboard mode, Office Lens trims and cleans up glare and shadows.

- With Document mode, Office Lens trims and colors images perfectly.

- Pictures can be saved to OneNote, OneDrive or other cloud storage.

- Business Card mode can extract contact information and save it into your address book and OneNote. This feature works best with the following business cards: English, German, Spanish and Simplified Chinese. Support for more languages is coming soon.

Choose to convert images to Word (.docx), PowerPoint (.pptx) or PDF (.pdf) files that are automatically saved to OneDrive.

Here is a quick overview of the new Office Lens App from Microsoft.This is a Free app that captures text and enables one to utilize the image/text in a variety of ways. From OCR to PowerPoint this new app seems to do it all especially when exported to a word processing app such as Microsoft Word itself.

Office Lens is like having a scanner in your pocket. Like magic, it will digitize notes on whiteboards or blackboards. Always find important documents or business cards. Sketch your ideas and snap a picture for later. Don't lose receipts or stray sticky notes again!

Scenarios:

- Capture and crop a picture of a whiteboard or blackboard and share your meeting notes with co-workers.

- Make digital copies of your printed documents, business cards or posters and trim them precisely.

- Printed and handwritten text will be automatically recognized (using OCR), so you can search for words in images and then copy and edit them.

Features:

- With Whiteboard mode, Office Lens trims and cleans up glare and shadows.

- With Document mode, Office Lens trims and colors images perfectly.

- Pictures can be saved to OneNote, OneDrive or other cloud storage.

- Business Card mode can extract contact information and save it into your address book and OneNote. This feature works best with the following business cards: English, German, Spanish and Simplified Chinese. Support for more languages is coming soon.

Choose to convert images to Word (.docx), PowerPoint (.pptx) or PDF (.pdf) files that are automatically saved to OneDrive.

Peggy Chong has been in many places and many states and it has been a while since she has been in Minnesota so it was nice to meet up with her and talk about her work and passions. Peggy is known as, “The Blind history Lady," as her work over the years has brought about her books and articles about people in history who were blind and nearly lost until Peggy dug up the articles and stories from relatives and schools to breathe some life into the lives they lived.

A look back at the blind men and women of the United States in the 1800s through the early 1900s who worked hard to lead a normal life. What they did, the resources they had or did not have and the techniques they used to become teachers, plumbers, politicians, newspaper editors, boat builders, barbers, piano tuners, chemists and so much more.

Peggy Chong has been in many places and many states and it has been a while since she has been in Minnesota so it was nice to meet up with her and talk about her work and passions. Peggy is known as, “The Blind history Lady," as her work over the years has brought about her books and articles about people in history who were blind and nearly lost until Peggy dug up the articles and stories from relatives and schools to breathe some life into the lives they lived.

A look back at the blind men and women of the United States in the 1800s through the early 1900s who worked hard to lead a normal life. What they did, the resources they had or did not have and the techniques they used to become teachers, plumbers, politicians, newspaper editors, boat builders, barbers, piano tuners, chemists and so much more.

]]>26:42no1250fulliPhone 101: Introduction To Voiceover Gestures - The BasicsiPhone 101: Introduction To Voiceover Gestures - The BasicsMon, 17 Apr 2017 15:30:08 +0000Blind Abilities presents another installment in its series: iPhone 101. In this segment Pete Lane introduces us to the most basic of the Voiceover gestures. While there are many gestures, these are the most basic gestures that will be needed to get acquainted with your iPhone as a new user. Pete not only explains the gestures, but he demonstrates them using his iPhone 6 to fully illustrate how they are used in real-life situations.

The gestures covered in this installment are:

1. The "Touch and Slide” gesture: touch the screen lightly with one finger. Whatever is touched will be read by Voiceover. Slide a single around the screen to explore the screen’s contents.

2. A flick to the right: a light flick with a single finger, usually your index finger, as if you’re flicking a bug.

3. A flick to the left: this is the same as number 2, except it is done in the opposite direction: from right to left.

4. A single-finger double-tap: using a single finger, usually your index finger, lightly tap an item quickly to activate a button or open an app.

Stay tuned for more installments in the series, including How to set up a new iPhone, and a review of all of the other Voiceover gestures.

]]>Blind Abilities presents another installment in its series: iPhone 101. In this segment Pete Lane introduces us to the most basic of the Voiceover gestures. While there are many gestures, these are the most basic gestures that will be needed to get acquainted with your iPhone as a new user. Pete not only explains the gestures, but he demonstrates them using his iPhone 6 to fully illustrate how they are used in real-life situations.

The gestures covered in this installment are:

1. The "Touch and Slide” gesture: touch the screen lightly with one finger. Whatever is touched will be read by Voiceover. Slide a single around the screen to explore the screen’s contents.

2. A flick to the right: a light flick with a single finger, usually your index finger, as if you’re flicking a bug.

3. A flick to the left: this is the same as number 2, except it is done in the opposite direction: from right to left.

4. A single-finger double-tap: using a single finger, usually your index finger, lightly tap an item quickly to activate a button or open an app.

Stay tuned for more installments in the series, including How to set up a new iPhone, and a review of all of the other Voiceover gestures.

]]>12:29no1249fullPhysics Major Jamie Principato Shattering Intuition, Settling is Not an Option and Math is BeautifulPhysics Major Jamie Principato Shattering Intuition, Settling is Not an Option and Math is BeautifulFri, 14 Apr 2017 21:16:39 +0000Physics Major Jamie Principato Shattering Intuition, Settling is Not an Option and Math is Beautiful

Physics Major Jamie Principato Shattering Intuition, Settling is Not an Option and Math is Beautiful

Jamie Principato is a Physics Major at the University of Colorado at Boulder and is working on a Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program for transition age B/VI students. Jamie talks about how she got interested in the sciences as a young child during conversations with her father. Her desire to become a Physics Major did not happen until she found the beauty in Mathematics and the determination to seek the field she desired and not to settle for less.

Jamie has transitioned from high school to home school and to college. She shares her experiences and encourages others not to settle for less than what they really want.

Join Jamie Principato as she sits down with Jeff Thompson of Blind Abilities and chats about her journey, her goals and some of the challenges she faced along the way.

]]>Physics Major Jamie Principato Shattering Intuition, Settling is Not an Option and Math is Beautiful

Physics Major Jamie Principato Shattering Intuition, Settling is Not an Option and Math is Beautiful

Jamie Principato is a Physics Major at the University of Colorado at Boulder and is working on a Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program for transition age B/VI students. Jamie talks about how she got interested in the sciences as a young child during conversations with her father. Her desire to become a Physics Major did not happen until she found the beauty in Mathematics and the determination to seek the field she desired and not to settle for less.

Jamie has transitioned from high school to home school and to college. She shares her experiences and encourages others not to settle for less than what they really want.

Join Jamie Principato as she sits down with Jeff Thompson of Blind Abilities and chats about her journey, her goals and some of the challenges she faced along the way.

]]>31:19no1248fullIntroducing David New: Activist, Advocate and Promoter of Assistive TechnologyIntroducing David New: Activist, Advocate and Promoter of Assistive TechnologyWed, 12 Apr 2017 16:00:59 +0000Blind Abilities presents this in depth interview with David New. David is many things, not the least of which is his activism in the Miami Beach area of South Florida around blindness initiatives. David is President of two organizations: Access Now and Power Access which are having a substantial impact in the areas of blindness advocacy. Join Jeff and Pete as they explore David's many talents, and discuss the hugely successful South Beach Jazz Festival of December 2016. Enjoy this fascinating 30-minute interview with the usual entertaining music and audio production you’ve grown to expect from Blind Abilities.

]]>Blind Abilities presents this in depth interview with David New. David is many things, not the least of which is his activism in the Miami Beach area of South Florida around blindness initiatives. David is President of two organizations: Access Now and Power Access which are having a substantial impact in the areas of blindness advocacy. Join Jeff and Pete as they explore David's many talents, and discuss the hugely successful South Beach Jazz Festival of December 2016. Enjoy this fascinating 30-minute interview with the usual entertaining music and audio production you’ve grown to expect from Blind Abilities.

The Blind Abilities Teen Cast Team member Alec Olson gives a brief introduction to the Voice Dream Reader App. The Teen Cast is part of Blind Abilities and focuses on students transitioning from high school to college and to the workplace.Alec is presently in high school and has used the Voice Dream reader app for quite some time and shares this overview with us so one can get a taste of what this app can do for you and just may be another Tool for your Toolbox for Success. so if you are curious about Voice Dream Reader and want to know more about how Alec uses this tool, check it out and we hope you enjoy.

The Blind Abilities Teen Cast Team member Alec Olson gives a brief introduction to the Voice Dream Reader App. The Teen Cast is part of Blind Abilities and focuses on students transitioning from high school to college and to the workplace.Alec is presently in high school and has used the Voice Dream reader app for quite some time and shares this overview with us so one can get a taste of what this app can do for you and just may be another Tool for your Toolbox for Success. so if you are curious about Voice Dream Reader and want to know more about how Alec uses this tool, check it out and we hope you enjoy.

]]>11:12no1246fullBraille Sense Polaris, Go Vision, and More Overviews of HIMS Products by Jeff BazerBraille Sense Polaris, Go Vision, and More Overviews of HIMS Products by Jeff BazerMon, 10 Apr 2017 23:49:52 +0000Jeff Bazer of HIMS, Inc. gives us an overview of all of the HIMS Low Vision and Braille Devices. This includes the versatile GoVision, perfect for the visually impaired employee. Featuring OCR and Near, Distance and Self View operations the GoVision will go with you and even connect to your smart phone, computer or tablet. Jeff also reviews the newest member of the HIMS BrailleSense family, the traditionally innovative BrailleSense Polaris. This device bridges a huge gap in mainstream technology verses the tried and true notetaker. The Polaris will allow you access to Google Docs, Google Slides and more AND it gives you endless options from the Google Play Store since it is built on the Android Lollipop platform.

]]>Jeff Bazer of HIMS, Inc. gives us an overview of all of the HIMS Low Vision and Braille Devices. This includes the versatile GoVision, perfect for the visually impaired employee. Featuring OCR and Near, Distance and Self View operations the GoVision will go with you and even connect to your smart phone, computer or tablet. Jeff also reviews the newest member of the HIMS BrailleSense family, the traditionally innovative BrailleSense Polaris. This device bridges a huge gap in mainstream technology verses the tried and true notetaker. The Polaris will allow you access to Google Docs, Google Slides and more AND it gives you endless options from the Google Play Store since it is built on the Android Lollipop platform.

]]>14:52no1245fullONYX OCR and the ElBraille Overview by VFO's Richard TappingONYX OCR and the ElBraille Overview by VFO's Richard TappingMon, 10 Apr 2017 17:22:12 +0000Richard Tapping gives our listeners an overview of the ElBraille and the ONYX OCR devices from VFO. These new devices are shipping soon and Richard covers each along with pricing packages from VFO. Descriptions from the VFO web site are posted below and Richard gives a great overview in this podcast. Join Richard Tapping and check out the new products from VFO.

The ElBraille is a portable device designed for users who are blind or deaf-blind and want to stay connected at school, work, or home as well as on the go. The twenty-first century, take anywhere replacement for the dedicated notetaker, ElBraille combines the power and flexibility of a modern mainstream computer running the Windows® 10 operating system with JAWS® and a Braille display with a full Braille keyboard to offer a fully accessible compact computer. JAWS provides the best screen reader experience with either Eloquence speech output or the highly responsive and life-like Vocalizer Expressive Compact voices as well as full Braille output. Type text into documents or perform JAWS and Windows® commands right from the Braille display’s keyboard using the JAWS BrailleIn® feature. Run any Windows application such as Microsoft Word®, Excel®, PowerPoint®, or Outlook®. Use FSReader to read DAISY books from sources such as Bookshare.org or browse the internet with Microsoft Internet Explorer® or Mozilla® Firefox. ElBraille also includes a set of specially designed apps for performing popular actions such as the creation of voice or text notes, listening to audio content, and more.

The ElNotes application developed by Elita Group is designed to create, store, and manage text and voice notes on the ElBraille Notetaker. ElNotes allows a user to quickly create text and voice notes using a set of special keystrokes and then export them to TXT or MP3 files respectively, if needed. These files are saved to a user-specified folder and then are available to be read and listened to using other ElBraille applications.

•A specially designed self-voiced and self-Brailled emergency menu allows recovery of the device without system reboot or loss of data in case speech and Braille output is interrupted

The ONYX OCR

LOW VISION SOLUTIONS: ONYX® OCR

Portable Video Magnifier

The ONYX OCR magnifies and reads aloud any document. The clear voice, magnification and high contrast makes reading so much easier. Comfortably change your focus from reading magnified texts yourself, to letting the ONYX OCR read them to you when reading becomes too tiring. Just place your document under the fixed OCR camera on the left and activate the speech function. Enjoy listening to any document as it is read aloud by a high quality voice, without straining your eyes. This four-in-one solution integrates two separate cameras: one for transforming text to speech output and one for magnifying documents and observing the room around you. This way, you can clearly see what you want, whether it is across the room or at your desk!

The ONYX OCR is a video magnifier for users who want to combine magnification and speech. The self-contained design integrates two cameras and a 24-inch touch screen. It allows you to view a full letter page on screen, and to magnify materials up to 131 times.

The ONYX OCR combines the perks of several video magnifiers in one design. With this four-in-one solution, you can magnify text on your desk, write, work on hobbies, view images from a distance, view yourself, and even listen to documents as they are read aloud! You can comfortably switch between reading magnified text and listening to documents. Just place your document under the fixed OCR camera on the left side of the magnifier, tap the touch screen and enjoy listening to the text, without straining your eyes.

]]>Richard Tapping gives our listeners an overview of the ElBraille and the ONYX OCR devices from VFO. These new devices are shipping soon and Richard covers each along with pricing packages from VFO. Descriptions from the VFO web site are posted below and Richard gives a great overview in this podcast. Join Richard Tapping and check out the new products from VFO.

The ElBraille is a portable device designed for users who are blind or deaf-blind and want to stay connected at school, work, or home as well as on the go. The twenty-first century, take anywhere replacement for the dedicated notetaker, ElBraille combines the power and flexibility of a modern mainstream computer running the Windows® 10 operating system with JAWS® and a Braille display with a full Braille keyboard to offer a fully accessible compact computer. JAWS provides the best screen reader experience with either Eloquence speech output or the highly responsive and life-like Vocalizer Expressive Compact voices as well as full Braille output. Type text into documents or perform JAWS and Windows® commands right from the Braille display’s keyboard using the JAWS BrailleIn® feature. Run any Windows application such as Microsoft Word®, Excel®, PowerPoint®, or Outlook®. Use FSReader to read DAISY books from sources such as Bookshare.org or browse the internet with Microsoft Internet Explorer® or Mozilla® Firefox. ElBraille also includes a set of specially designed apps for performing popular actions such as the creation of voice or text notes, listening to audio content, and more.

The ElNotes application developed by Elita Group is designed to create, store, and manage text and voice notes on the ElBraille Notetaker. ElNotes allows a user to quickly create text and voice notes using a set of special keystrokes and then export them to TXT or MP3 files respectively, if needed. These files are saved to a user-specified folder and then are available to be read and listened to using other ElBraille applications.

•A specially designed self-voiced and self-Brailled emergency menu allows recovery of the device without system reboot or loss of data in case speech and Braille output is interrupted

The ONYX OCR

LOW VISION SOLUTIONS: ONYX® OCR

Portable Video Magnifier

The ONYX OCR magnifies and reads aloud any document. The clear voice, magnification and high contrast makes reading so much easier. Comfortably change your focus from reading magnified texts yourself, to letting the ONYX OCR read them to you when reading becomes too tiring. Just place your document under the fixed OCR camera on the left and activate the speech function. Enjoy listening to any document as it is read aloud by a high quality voice, without straining your eyes. This four-in-one solution integrates two separate cameras: one for transforming text to speech output and one for magnifying documents and observing the room around you. This way, you can clearly see what you want, whether it is across the room or at your desk!

The ONYX OCR is a video magnifier for users who want to combine magnification and speech. The self-contained design integrates two cameras and a 24-inch touch screen. It allows you to view a full letter page on screen, and to magnify materials up to 131 times.

The ONYX OCR combines the perks of several video magnifiers in one design. With this four-in-one solution, you can magnify text on your desk, write, work on hobbies, view images from a distance, view yourself, and even listen to documents as they are read aloud! You can comfortably switch between reading magnified text and listening to documents. Just place your document under the fixed OCR camera on the left side of the magnifier, tap the touch screen and enjoy listening to the text, without straining your eyes.

]]>07:30no1244fullNo More De Minimis: NFB’s Chris Danielsen on the IDEA Supreme Court DecisionNo More De Minimis: NFB’s Chris Danielsen on the IDEA Supreme Court DecisionThu, 30 Mar 2017 15:16:11 +0000Chris Danielsen, Director of Public Relations for the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) explains the recent Supreme Court decision that strengthens the Individuals with disabilities Education Act. No longer can educators simply reinforce low expectations by not challenging students with disabilities, a meaningful education steps up the definition of appropriate public education which is the key language for the IDEA. Join Chris Danielsen and Jeff Thompson as they walk through what the unanimous Supreme Court decision means for the Blind and Disabled communities.

You can contact Chris Danielsen Director of Public Relations National Federation of the Blind by E-mail:

]]>Chris Danielsen, Director of Public Relations for the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) explains the recent Supreme Court decision that strengthens the Individuals with disabilities Education Act. No longer can educators simply reinforce low expectations by not challenging students with disabilities, a meaningful education steps up the definition of appropriate public education which is the key language for the IDEA. Join Chris Danielsen and Jeff Thompson as they walk through what the unanimous Supreme Court decision means for the Blind and Disabled communities.

You can contact Chris Danielsen Director of Public Relations National Federation of the Blind by E-mail:

]]>18:17no1243fullDemonstrating the Orcam: OCR, Object and Facial RecognitionDemonstrating the Orcam: OCR, Object and Facial RecognitionTue, 28 Mar 2017 00:42:38 +0000While attending the Minnesota ACB convention, Jeff Thompson of the Blind Abilities Team talked to Aliza Olenick from Orcam. A new camera device that attaches to glasses and reads print, does object recognition, facial recognition and much more. Aliza demos the orcam in action and gives us a great feel for such an innovative product.

]]>While attending the Minnesota ACB convention, Jeff Thompson of the Blind Abilities Team talked to Aliza Olenick from Orcam. A new camera device that attaches to glasses and reads print, does object recognition, facial recognition and much more. Aliza demos the orcam in action and gives us a great feel for such an innovative product.

]]>09:31no1242fulliPhone 101 - Resources: iPhone Prices in the Apple Store and on AmazoniPhone101 - Resources: iPhone Prices in the Apple Store and on AmazonSat, 25 Mar 2017 03:31:31 +0000Blind Abilities presents another in its iPhone 101 series, in the Resources section. In this short audio clip, Pete Lane shows us some prices and specifications for iPhone models 6S, 7 and 7 Plus available through the iOS app, called “The Apple Store.” Pete illustrates how this app works and some of the other features offered in the app, such as the Certified refurbished Program and the iPhone Upgrade Program. Pete then takes us over to the Amazon store via the IOS Amazon app, where he searches for some other models which may be available for cheaper prices. Join Pete for this quick trip around the iPhone sales arena in this installment in the iPhone 101 series.

]]>Blind Abilities presents another in its iPhone 101 series, in the Resources section. In this short audio clip, Pete Lane shows us some prices and specifications for iPhone models 6S, 7 and 7 Plus available through the iOS app, called “The Apple Store.” Pete illustrates how this app works and some of the other features offered in the app, such as the Certified refurbished Program and the iPhone Upgrade Program. Pete then takes us over to the Amazon store via the IOS Amazon app, where he searches for some other models which may be available for cheaper prices. Join Pete for this quick trip around the iPhone sales arena in this installment in the iPhone 101 series.